Delphiniums, when to start seed

I just purchased a pack of delphinium seeds.
The pkg says to start them in August.???
I really want to start them now.
Can I

 

I started some a couple of weeks ago and they are already up. The directions said they could take 45 days to germinate - mine took less than 2 weeks. So far they only haven't got any true leaves yet. I'm just hoping they get big enough to go outside by May. I hope they bloom next year

 

thanks so much, I will start them tomorrow. Much appreciated.