You're in a different zone than me, so that may make a difference, but I'm in NE Ohio zone 5/6 and my sweet peas always seem to take a long time to germinate. I start them in late spring though, about this time of year...I know they like a little bit of cold to start and can even handle a light snow that doesn't stick. Once they do get going though they take off quickly for me. Larkspur I have never been able to wintersow, even though people in my area say it reseeds. This year I'm going to try to direct sow them. I wouldn't give up just yet...but that's just me. You could always buy a few extra packs so if they don't come up you can try direct sowing.

Good luck! ;)

When to give up? Months from now, in zone 6!

Seems bigger seeds are the ones that tend to rot in cold wet soil. Small seeds don't seem to mind.

Vera's tip: direct sow larkspur in very late summer/fall. They'll sprout and overwinter as seedlings in your beds. They like the cold.

Karen

Does seem a bit premature to give up on anything before the first day of spring (tomorrow). Winter sowing is a proven method of growing perennials, annuals, vegetables, shrubs, trees & vines from seed. It doesn't guarantee or even suggest seeds will sprout earlier than via direct sowing, only that the germination rates will far exceed those vulnerable to external risks such as wind, critters, etc. Last year my first sprout was lupine on March 14; last one to sprout was painted daisy on May 2. That's nearly a 6-week window when 50 different annuals & perennials sprouted. If Mother Nature hasn't given up on your seeds, at a minimum I'd be more inclined to give them another few weeks.

I just have one thing to say:

Here is a link that might be useful: Never give up!!