>> But even things that are supposed to require cold strat will often sprout without it IF the seeds are very fresh, as in just harvested from your plants.
Some varieties of species that are "supposed to" need cold moist stratification sprouted for me, indoors, around 50%.
I was told that "some varieties no longer have strong dormancy requirements", they just might sprout faster or more of them might sprout if you do stratify them.
I was also told that OLD seeds, say 3+ years old, lose the dormancy they used to have.
So I think, unless you only have a little of some seed, that it is well worthwhile trying to start a few whatver way is easiest for you.
And each time you do that and save the seeds, you select for less dormancy.
Corey
P.S. This is just a theory, but storing seeds in a fridge with no dessicant may be unintentional stratification, as the humidty in the fridge changes every time you open the door, and you can even condense humidity on a cold seed packet.
Also, a vegetable crisper drawer maintains HIGHER humidity than the rest of the fridge.