Autumn is the perfect time for sowing these seeds outdoors as they require a period of cold stratification and usually germinate in early Spring.   It is a simpler and easier way of germinating Astrantia seeds.  The other method includes refrigeration for several weeks to break the dormancy of the seeds. Astrantia seed can be sown at any time of the year, in a cool shaded area, ensuring that the compost is kept moist. The seeds usually take several months to germinate.

Growing Instructions:

Astrantia seeds need a long period of prolonged cold i(stratification) n order to break their dormancy.   

From Autumn onwards seeds can be sown directly into open ground in the garden or into pots or containers of a good seed and potting compost and left outside in a sheltered area or in a cold frame to overwinter.  Seedlings usually appear from early spring onwards.  This method provides a very good germination rate.

Indoor Sowing from February to July. Sow Astrantia seed in trays or pots that will fit into a fridge.   Using a pre moistened good seed compost surface sow the seed, pressing gently onto compost,  Cover the seeds very lightly with compost or vermiculite in order not to exclude light from the seeds. Place in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimum temperature of 60-65F (15-18C) for 2-3 weeks after which the tray or pot should be placed in a refrigerator (in the bottom part of fridge) for at least 3-5 weeks. Examine regularly whilst in the fridge and remove when seeds show signs of germinating. After this return to the recommended germination temperature.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots or seed trays and grow on until young plants are well established. Harden off  plants by gradual acclimatization to outdoor conditions before planting out 30-35cm (12-14in) apart in full sun or part shade area and in a moist, well-drained soil.