Sowing Sweet Peas Now

For the first time I have sown sweet peas in pots (about a month ago) and they are doing well but I think I have to keep them away from frosts or is there a higher temperasture where they will be damage?  Of course now I have done the deed I ask myself what is the benefit when I assume an early sowing indoors in February would achieve the same results.  Any thoughts?  Thanks.