Zinc deficiency has been reported on flax in North Dakota, so information on zinc levels should be requested when soil testing. Flax should be sown into firm, moist soil. A well prepared, firm seedbed will ensure sowing at the proper depth. This, in turn, will result in uniform germination and rapid, even emergence. A planting depth of to 1 inches is recommended.
Press drill packer wheels do a satisfactory job of firming the soil after planting.
If other types of planters are used, special efforts are needed, such as a soil packer behind the drill or harrowing prior to planting to firm the seedbed. Avoid deep seeding as delayed emergence weakens seedlings, and weak seedlings are more likely to die. When pre-plant incorporated herbicides are used, shallow planting is a must to reduce stress on emerging flax seedlings. Flax seedlings are less able to force their way through a soil crust than wheat seedlings. A stand of 70 plants per square foot is desired.