Hi ccaggiano - I don't honestly think you can make broad general conclusion on germination rates between heirlooms and hybrids. Too much depends on the variety and seed quality. Assuming good, fresh quality of both and equal conditions, I find little difference between germination rates/speeds, hybrids to heirlooms. But I do find a BIG difference from variety to variety of seeds regardless of whether they are hybrid or heirloom. EX: cherry/grape varieties often germinate faster than do beefsteak types, early varieties will germinate faster than late season varieties, and RL varieties will often germinate faster than PL varieties. So, given the info you provided I wouldn't give up on any of them yet. Hope this helps. ;) Dave

Delay sowing the seed for 30-45 days.... but sow before the ground freezes......& yes if clippins are thick it could cause heat that will harm seed....thin layers 1/4 to 1/2" will not.....

Thanks Carolyn! DH told me he was adding water (only a tiny, little bit!!) every day. He was trying to help :-(( What is a gal to do! I explained that too much water is not so good........ I only found out because he wondered why I was taking photos of 'those sick looking plants'!! Ah well......... DL

I usually end up with about a 4" vertical from the bathroom floor to the top of the curb if it's a tiled curb. Another inch higher if it's a stone-topped curb. Inside the shower about a 2" vertical back down to the shower floor tile for a tiled curb, about 3" for a stone curb.