Why not direct-seed the zinnias and cosmos. That's what I do. Just did some more a couple weeks ago.

I have bad luck with direct seedling. This way I can really make the seeds that I had to buy amount to something. I know cosamos and zinnias both come up quickly when its warm like now so I figgure they will be all right. Never tried Lupines so have no idea if I will have any sucess.

Rita, when you say that you have planted them in flats, does that mean you will be "growing them under the lights?" If not that method, do you cover the flat with anything until they germinate?

No, I am starting them outside. I just used the flates plants come in and filled them with potting mix and planted. They should not be in there too long anyway and then I will plant them out in the garden. I do not start ANY seeds inside. No lighting setup and I don't want one.

They are not covered with anything.

Are those flats that you refer to look like individual cell packs? I purchased a flat of annuals for a plant swap and it was like 32 cells. I kept it because it was so nice and thought I could use it come spring time but the darn squirrels and chipmunk probably would dig up anything that was planting in it I'm afraid. I would think that they would dry out too quickly. I did find it hard to get the plants out of it though.

I start fast growing annuals and also some of my perennials this time of year in cell packs. I have a shade house that I keep them in so they don't get baked in the sun and will cover them with a plastic cover if heavy rains are expected. A lot of stores will have the seed started kits on clearance sale now if you don't have your own already.......

Lynne