A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Plants and Flowers Forum Plant Propagation I didn't understand

I tried reading Nemo Nomad's posts on growing from seeds but I still don't understand and I'm wondering if there are options on some steps.

Here is what I want to do. I have some peonies and I would like to grow some of the seeds. I know they don't usually come true from the parent but I'd still like to try it.

Sometimes I need something to keep me going in retirement. So....it was suggested that I start with a pastry tray to plant the seeds in that fake soil stuff. Considering how large the rhysomes get I'm thinking this would require transplanting. Would it be possible to plant it in something 4 to 6 inches deep and then put a milk bottle lid on it for the humidity?

It was suggested a week outdoors in winter for stratification. I'm not sure when the seeds will be ripe for harvest but if it isn't cold here at that time would a week in the refrigerator be enough?

Then it was suggested that I put it somewhere warm. I'm wondering does it need light at this phase or is warm the only consideration.

And then is it 5 years to bloom after the two years of germination or is that how long it takes before it sprouts the first time?

Thank you for any help you can give me.

From Park seeds:

Sow outdoors for germination the following spring.
Indoors, sow the seeds and maintain a temperature in the growing medium of 70° until the roots develop. Then refrigerate or place the seed flat outdoors for 8-10 weeks (if it is cold), followed by germination at a temperature in the growing medium of 70°. Germination will take up to 2 months.

Thanks Bill

I'm thinking I need to make a space in the garden for a nursery bed. Somewhere for my garden experiments.