Planting Corn Depth

Ideal Planting Depth

• For maximum growing potential and corn production, seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 inch to 2 1/2 inches. If corn is planted too deep, it will put a strain on the plant while it is attempting to sprout and reach the top of the soil.

Roots

• If corn is planted at too shallow of a depth, it may hinder healthy growing for the rest of the plant's life. After planting, roots sprout from the seed and immediately begin to anchor and nourish the plant. When these roots are too shallow to stabilize the plant, it may tip over or begin to wither after sprouting.

Soil

• The temperature and quality of the soil you're planting your corn in should be taken into consideration when calculating planting depth. When planting corn in early spring, the soil will be cool and corn should be planted on the shallow end of the spectrum, around 1 to 1 1/2 inches. In the late spring and early summer months, the soil will be warmer and drier and corn should be planted at 2 to 2 1/2 inches to ensure the seed can germinate properly.