Can I cold stratify Verbena rigida seeds in their packets?

Question

Hi: I live in Houston (zone 9a) and have several hundred seeds of V. rigida. My partner is unwilling to have them taking up space in the fridge on moist towels. Would it be ok to chill them in their packets then direct sow? Since Houston winters are mild, should I sow them in the fall or in the spring? Thanks for your time and consideration!

Answer 1

Since it's such a short time till fall planting, you can just chill them in their packets. I would go ahead and plant them this fall since you live in a mild area.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/wet-vs-dry-stratification.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/does-freezing-kill-seeds.htm