Don,
If at all possible, start with fresh seed. I was disappointed several years in a row when trying seeds of unknown age. Once a friend sent me some fresh seeds, it was as easy as can be.
I used the winter sowing method in 2011; sown Feb. 15, and sprouts by March 5. I ended up with 72 transplants!
If you're not sure about the freshness of your seeds, you might try test germinating a few by using the baggie method (indoors) first.
Best of luck to you! Once you do get a few plants going they'll reseed just enough that you'll likely never be out of them.
