Sowing Depth — The 3x Seed Size Rule

Reading in: English Original (PL)
In short: Sowing too deep is a silent cause of poor germination. Depth = 3 times the seed diameter. Lettuce and celery require light access — don't cover them with soil at all.
Sowing Depth — The 3x Seed Size Rule

Sowing Depth — The 3x Rule

A seed sown too deep will germinate but cannot break through the thick layer of soil. It dies underground without a trace.

Rule: depth = 3 × seed diameter

  • Tomato (3mm) → 8–10 mm
  • Cucumber (6mm) → 15–18 mm
  • Pumpkin (12mm) → 3–4 cm
  • Carrot (1mm) → cover very lightly, max 3 mm
  • Lettuce → DON'T cover! Requires light for germination

    Seeds requiring light (sow on surface, just press down):

  • Lettuce, celery
  • Marjoram, thyme, oregano
  • Always check the package

    Practically: After sowing, gently press down the growing medium. Water with a fine mist sprayer — a stream will move small seeds around.

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