Dianthus germination

[Regelian]

I harvested some seed from a perennial Dianthus, unknown species, and was wondering, should I plant them directly or is it better to chill them and plant in the late Winter.  Do Dianthus sprout immediately and then overwinter, or do they require vernalization?

[tonyg]

I do not know the science but from experience viable dianthus seed germinates quickly when conditions are right.  So they might germinate pre-winter if sown now and that is what would happen in nature.  Keep some to sow late winter and you have 'insurance'.

[Regelian]

Thanks, Tony,

I'll try sowing some now, as the weather is good and we still have 8 weeks of growing season before the cold.  I find many plants do very well in the Autumn, growing to considerable size before sleeping for the Winter.