Jewell, the vast majority of any seedlings will be plain Jane greenies. However, you CAN get interesting surprises. I have a few seedlings that have developed margins including one from 'Last Dance' that looks just like a sibling to LD - 'Dance With Me'. I've named it after a granddaughter. My recent pics are on my other computer but I'll add some seedling pics later. I also have a couple of yellow seedlings that I'm keeping and some from 'Lakeside Cranberry Relish' with nice red legs. You need space to grow them (or a friend to grow them for you) and you need patience because one seedling that I liked a LOT last year, I don't much like this year. They can change a lot each year in the first few years. (Don't name them for family or anyone special until you are sure).
As far as germination, I've found that most germinate in a week or so, sometimes sooner. I've usually started mine after Christmas, but after seeing some seedlings others had germinated earlier I think I may try them earlier as well. All of mine have been open pollinated as well.
