Mark 4:5

Amplified Bible

⁵Other seed fell on rocks where there was not much soil; and immediately a plant sprang up ^[a]because the soil had no depth.

Mark 4:5 In many parts of Israel a layer of limestone lies an inch or so beneath the surface of the ground. This layer traps the moisture, and for a brief period of time a plant growing there may appear to flourish. But as soon as a dry spell comes, the moisture quickly dissipates. Due to the layer of limestone, the plant cannot sink roots and soon withers and dies (v 6).