How translate sowing instructions from zone 7 or so, down to zone 5

I've now got my seeds from plant world seeds and realize that the instructions might need translating from Devon growing to my zone 5. Putting trays in the greenhouse over winter would subject them to long hard freezes at night to sunny day 50f or so. What to do? Follw directions as is or adjust them.Any thoughts anyone?

 

If you have enough seed of each I would sow half in the greenhouse and put half in the fridge, just in damp compost in a sealed bag.
I know your winters are pretty brutal temperature wise but I think probably the fritillaria would be ok, not so sure about Acanthus.

 

Thanks @pete . I'll start getting them ready tomorrow. Got lots of fridge space too

 

I think you would only need a couple of months in the fridge in damp compost.
Are you intending growing them under lights in the winter or letting them germinate naturally next spring.

 

Aha. Good idea. The cellar is cool now then cold in the winter. About 55 to 60f so I'll perhaps reconfigure some lighting outside the grow tents.

Perhaps starting with 9 hours and gradually increasing after Christmas.

There are only 5 of the Acanthus so I'll start with 2.

 

Well I wasn't actually suggesting, just asking what you had in mind.
Personally I wouldn't even try growing them until spring.
Have you read up on both plants?

Just wondering if the Acanthus will be hardy enough to get through your winters.

 

I am laughing because I was thinking about waiting until late winter to try. Now I feel a bit better about pondering that. I am also feeling lazy and avoiding a new set up is a nice thought!

 

If I was you I'd mix the seeds with a small amount of damp compost in late January and put them in the fridge for 2 months, then bring them out and give them normal growing conditions, germination could be slow.

 

Thank you, that is what I will do!