@blackthumbbetty is correct about the soft water
When germinating ph doesn’t really matter since you dont have roots @TommyBahama just a fyi
Otherwise spot on answering @RVN-Tree
After spring thaw your safe to start your crop
Most outdoor growers will start in doors and slowly transition plants outdoors when temps allow
You should Start your own topic as well and you will get more traffic RVN 
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