Hi Rick, It would appear that the seed should be sown fresh, I have gotten seed from elsewhere that has dried and it seems to not be viable. I would suggest sowing it right away embedded in the surface of a good mix as one would with crinum seed. I doubt chipping the coat is necessary, when they dry out for a while they shrivel. Ernie DeMarie Briarcliff Manor NY where the Erythrina zeyheri (only true geophyte in the genus) that was given some winter protection continues to grow robustly. Might even flower if I am lucky.