Planting Vegetable Seeds

Retired Extension Agent Mike Dennison shows how to plant vegetable seeds in the Family Plot Garden. After measuring out the garden he digs holes that are the correct depth for the seed. Seeds need to be planted at about four times their diameter. Mr. D drops 4-5 seeds in each hole he digs and covers it with the correct depth of soil. Then he lightly tamps down the soil with a garden rake. Research has shown that firming up the soil after planting improves germination rates. Mike plants cantaloupe, cucumber, watermelon, and squash in hills. He plants okra and beans in short rows behind the vine plants. He planned the garden so that the vine plants have a place to run. In a few weeks when the seeds have sprouted, they will need to be thinned.

The UT Publication Mike referred to is Growing Vegetables in Home Gardens (pages 6 & 7)

Related Videos:
Mike thins the seedlings

Related Resources:
The Tennessee Vegetable Garden
Vegetable Planting Guide
Home Vegetable Gardening