Rick, the information I found is not as precise as you are probably used to find in your books. Please consider that we do not have the many zones/climates you have in the USA and that the regular gardener here does not work with heated mats, lights, etc.
The book recommends stratified sowing in Fall, using a mix of 1 portion compost, 1/2 a portion sand and 1/2 a portion vermiculite. Once the new plantils have 2 true leaves, transplant them to bags, using the same mix as for sowing. It furthermore says that they grow slowly (10 to 15 cm - 4 to 6 inches) during their first year, experimenting a fast growth from the second year on. Blooms are to be expected the 3rd or 4th year. When you plant them in the garden, consider a place that keeps the roots in the shade, but with elements that allow them to climb on (trellis, pergola, trees, etc. or where they can scramble down). The definitive place should have some moisture, and organic soil with good drainage. They can also be planted in rocky places, providing good organic soil. Expect to loose some branches every winter, but do not prune to early, since many will produce new shoots in Spring. Do not overwater.
Hope this info. adds a bit to the one you received from the N.A. Rock Garden Society.
