
As a rule, seeds should not be buried any deeper than their diameter. Forget the quarter-inch planting depths you see on many seed packets. That's too deep for all but the biggest seeds, such as peas and beans. Some seeds even need light to germinate—don't bury those at all.
Links:
[1] http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/cauliflower
[2] http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/melon-growing-guide