Plant in a tray: Sow seeds in a tray or container filled with a seed-raising mix or soil starter pellets. 
Cover with soil: Cover the seeds with enough soil to block out light. You can also cover with a board or black plastic, removing it after the seeds sprout. 
Keep moist: Keep the soil moist but not wet or dry. 
Provide warmth: Pansy seeds germinate best in temperatures between 17–21°C (60–70°F). 
Germination time: Seeds should germinate in 4–7 days. 
Transplant: Transplant seedlings to the garden once they have their first true leaves and are about 5–10 cm tall. Space plants 15–30 cm apart. 
When to plant: You can move seedlings to the garden after the threat of frost has passed. 
Choose a location: Pansies prefer moist, cold weather and can tolerate short days in the winter or early spring.