Cotton seed should be placed from 1/2 to 1-1/2 inches deep depending on soil moisture and soil texture. On coarse textured soils, the seed should be placed into the moisture zone. On heavier, clayey soils, seed placement should be just at the moisture zone. Adequate seed to soil contact and adequate moisture is essential for rapid germination and emergence. Planting depth should be set in the field during planting - not in the shop, based upon the owner's manual. Get the planter up to speed and check seeding depth 50' to 100' into the field. This is important because soil type, seedbed condition, moisture and planter speed will influence appropriate planting depth. Planting cotton seed deeper than 1-1/2 inches may result in delayed emergence and skimpy stands.

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