The Growing Depth for Vegetables

Plant corn seed at a depth of about 2 inches.

The growing or planting depth for vegetables depends on the size of the seed. As a general rule, plant the vegetable seed at a depth 4 to 5 times the diameter of the seed. Plant the seed slightly deeper in sandy soil.

1/2 and 3/4 Inch

Many vegetables prefer a planting depth of about 1/2 inch. This includes carrots, endive, kale, lettuce, parsnip, rutabaga and turnip. Several vegetables such as parsley and cucumbers require a 3/4-inch planting depth.

1 and 1 1/2 Inch

Beets, kohlrabi, Swiss chard, squash, pumpkin, watermelon and cantaloupe germinate well with a planting depth of about 1 inch. A 1-1/2 inch planting depth is preferred by peas, radish, eggplant, okra and peppers.

2 Inches or More

Beans and sweet corn require a planting depth of about 2 inches. Plant potato sets at least 4 inches deep. Asparagus crowns prefer a planting depth of about 6 inches.

References

• Montana State University Extension: "Planting a Successful Home Vegetable Garden"; Cheryl Moore-Gough and R.E. Gough; 2007
• North Carolina State University: "Home Vegetable Gardening"; Larry Bass; 2000
• Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide: Step 6 - Plant Your Vegetables Right
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: "Seed for the Garden"; Diane Relf and Alan McDaniel; 2009