Heck, yes! I mean, I assume that you've planted them inside, right? They can be started inside and then planted outside after danger of frost in your area. With plenty of light (inside) after germination, both of those plants will be blooming in a very short period of time.

You're fine. You don't want to start seeds *too* early indoors, they get lanky and weaker as time goes by. 8 weeks before planting out date is a good timetable for marigolds, but I've done it as close to 6 weeks and had beautiful plants. When to start depends on the on plant, so read the back of the seed packet if you don't have any annual or vegetable books at your disposal (or just ask away here on the board :) )

Which reminds me, I have to get my hind end going and plant some seeds this weekend...

Thank you both! I am always hesitant with seeds, only try a few every year. I have much better luck (and patience) with full grown plants! Good to know they'll be nice size by summer.

Jen

Jen,

I'm in zone 5 too and i start all my seeds using the winter sowing method. I do annuals in late March/early April. I use milk jugs and cut almost in half. Poke a couple drain holes in bottom, put at least 3 inches of potting soil and moisten. Let drain a bit, sow seeds, cover lightly with soil. Tape jug shut, leave cap off and set outside. I have sprouts starting the first week of April. They are so healthy and no damp off. I have had them sprout, get hit with ice storm and survive. I usually do between 400-600 containers of perennials, annuals and veggies. This is my 5th year and I would never start seeds any other way. Check out the winter sowing forum here on gardenweb for lots of help.

Containers outside:
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Spring sprouts:
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April

Allysum can be sowed as late as 1 month before they are set out. And, if hardened, can be planted outside before the last frost date. Here in zone 4, they start volunteer sprouting around May 1, so that is about when I set out my starts. Our last frost is May 15.

WOW April, that's a lot of seeds! You must have gorgeous flower gardens.

I noticed yesterday that my Allysum seeds are sprouting already! Guess I had nothing to worry about.

Jen