You can direct sow outside a great many different types of perennials as long as you have clearly passed your last frost date. They may not bloom this season but the plants themselves should be large enough to survive winter just fine.

Yes, definitely! What perennials are you trying to grow? I would start them outside rather than inside this time of year, they don't mind a chill and will germinate when ready if kept moist.

I start mine in a flat and as they germinate, after they have a true set of leaves, put them in a small pot to grow over the summer. You can overwinter them in a protected spot if they seem too small to put in the ground in fall.

I am thinking about coneflower, rudbeckia, foxglove, and columbine. Good to know I can at least get them started. I live in CO, so our weather is pretty volatile, but I have a calm spot by the house that might work well for that. Thank you!

I usually wait until June or July to start columbine and foxgloves. Too early and the foxgloves overgrow for me and don't overwinter as well.