A few years ago, I took the advice of Betty Payton (the Pepper Gal) and began soaking my chile seeds in one tsp. Saltpetre to one quart of water. The seeds then soak for 4 hours. This treatment helps to loosen the seed coat - and really speeds germination. I also now use the Stella Natura Biodynamic planting calendar - only starting the seeds on Fruit days. This allows my pepper seeds to come up in less than 7 days, as opposed to the 2 weeks or more I had previously experienced. Of course, the longer the seeds are in the soil, ungerminated, the greater the chance of rot. Any/way, that's what's been working here - -- Robert Farr (540) 668-7160 Check out http://www.thechileman.com for Hot Sauces, Salsas, Mustards & More!