Planting Seeds in the Field

• The planting of seeds or transplants in the field is frequently called “stand establishment”.
• Non-dormant, viable vegetable seeds germinate most rapidly when they are fully hydrated (no moisture stress) at the optimum temperature for germination.
• Always plant seeds deep enough so that they have access to moisture. If moisture is limited, plant seeds a little deeper so they will have sufficient moisture to germinate. A rule of thumb is to plant seeds to a depth 3 times the length of the seed, so large seeds are planted deeper than small seeds. As the saying goes, “Plant to moisture” (but of course don’t plant seeds so deep that they cannot emerge).
• Ensure that there is good seed-to-soil contact to facilitate water uptake by the seed. This may be accomplished by using coated or pelleted seeds and by proper seedbed preparation.
• Soils with high clay content can “crust” and inhibit field emergence. Crusting can be eliminated by keeping the soil moist until emergence. Sprinkler irrigation may be used to prevent crusting. It also helps cool the soil which is important when planting a cool-season crop into warm soil. When the soil temperature exceeds the optimum for germination, night planting may be an option, particularly for rapidly germinating seeds like broccoli or lettuce.
• Many crops are established from transplants to reduce the time in the field, increase uniformity, and ensure a good stand.