Delphiniums from seed

Amongst all the seed trays which adorn the window sills and patio window floor space I've started off some delphinium seeds( Sutton "Delight Mix") which are just starting to poke through. The growing instructions are a bit vague on temperature once they are pricked out and potted on. I've never attempted to grow them from seed before, any advice would be grateful.

 

Hi Justtracing.

I happen to have just bought a book on Delphiniums written by a couple of specialist growers, David and Shirley Bassett. Retail price £25, but £1 in Poundland!

Summarising from the book. Delphiniums can be sown at any time, but late winter to early spring is best. They sow seeds in mid to late Feb, which should see one flower spike within 6 months of sowing. Seed requirements are 15C to 20C. for successful germination. Excessive heat is a common cause of germination failure. Low temperatures are not harmful, but germination is slower and so there is an increased chance of rot from mould in the compost or on the seed coat. Cover the seeds to prevent moisture loss.

And as soon as they start to germinate give them good light to avoid etiolation (ie going spindly). But don't put them in direct sunlight, which will scorch them. Keep the surface moist to get the rest to germinate and cover with a transparent lid. Start lifting the lid as soon as a good proportion have germinated to let them have a bit of air to avoid damping off. Prick out when they have their first to second set of true leaves.