They're actually fairly easy to start from seed; you just need fresh seed (they don't keep long at all). Just poke the seeds about halfway into the moist potting soil, cover with a clear dome, and keep warm till they sprout. Usually only takes a week or less. I seem to recall that the ones I grew from seed sprouted in about 5 days. If you're going to try to keep them in pots, the unglazed terra cotta pots are best because they dry out quickly. Those little rascals would just as soon rot as look at you!