How deep should small seeds be planted?

How deep should small seeds be planted?

• A. 1/8 inch
• B. 1/4 inch
• C. 3/8 inch
• D. 1/2 inch

Answer: (B)

Seed depth is driven by seed size and energy reserves. Small seeds germinate best when they’re planted only shallowly so moisture reaches them without forcing a long push through soil. About one-quarter inch is a practical depth for many small seeds because it provides enough contact with soil to stay moist while not being so deep that the seed cannot reach the surface during germination. Some very tiny seeds can be sown even more shallow or on the surface, but a quarter inch is the standard, reliable depth for small seeds. Deeper placements, such as three-eighths or half an inch, can prevent germination for small seeds because the embryo has to push through too much soil, while too shallow a depth won’t keep moisture long enough for germination.

Seed depth is driven by seed size and energy reserves. Small seeds germinate best when they’re planted only shallowly so moisture reaches them without forcing a long push through soil. About one-quarter inch is a practical depth for many small seeds because it provides enough contact with soil to stay moist while not being so deep that the seed cannot reach the surface during germination. Some very tiny seeds can be sown even more shallow or on the surface, but a quarter inch is the standard, reliable depth for small seeds. Deeper placements, such as three-eighths or half an inch, can prevent germination for small seeds because the embryo has to push through too much soil, while too shallow a depth won’t keep moisture long enough for germination.