My experience has been successful when the delphs are given darkness. I cover them with 1/4-1/2 inch of soil. They also need some cold, too, but I think the darkness is most important. Delphs I have sowed in Jan and Feb have sprouted in March and April, and Delphs I have sowed in March and April have sprouted in late April and early May. Twenty-one days or so is needed before sprouting. I hope this helps!

sorry to butt in - It would be okay to add some more soil on top of the delphs now if I sowed them on the 6th, right? I have a feeling I didn't add enough soil to make it dark enough, but it's only been about 10 days so I won't know for another 2-3 weeks.

Hi, Craftlady,

I think adding extra soil now would be fine. I think as long as you cannot see the seeds on the surface of your soil, you should be fine. I am not good at specific measurements. To me, 1/4-1/2" of soil means a good handful to a handful and a half of soil. :) Hope this helps!
Below is an interesting thread about starting delphinium from seed. Lots of different methods, opinions, and experiences. The thread is something that gave me the push to try delphs winter-sowing style after seeing Moonphase's post. :) I have not seen her posting here this year. She has beautiful gardens and is a courageous and kind woman.

cheers,
Norabelle

Here is a link that might be useful: Delphinium seeds thread