Starting perennials or biennials in the autumn

Hi all,

Last year I started several varieties in the autumn and transplanted them out this year when the weather warmed up. In retrospect, many were not recommended for growing on and planting out due to root disturbance or other issues. However, the hollyhocks, foxgloves, and poppies were actually all fine. I think I also had some annual cornflowers and calendula.

I'm wondering what varieties you may try to sow early to get earlier or first-year flowering where it might otherwise not occur.

This year I have larkspur, delphinium, canterbury bells, lupins...I'll have to investigate to see what else is about. Not sure if any are suitable for autumn sowing/overwintering in the GH. Any thoughts?

Thanks!