zones 6-9 I do believe...correct me someone if I am wrong :) - To start the seeds place them in a container without drainage...I used a thing I bout mushrooms in...put plastic wrap over the top of it and make sure it is sealed...put it in a window sill...or at least somewhere that gets sunlight. Basically you are making a terrarium...you wont have to water them until they get big enough that you have to take the plastic off :) Easiest way to start any seeds! hope that helps!