Probably as long as it is allowed to run long enough to evenly saturate the soil to the depth of the seeds. Many don't realize how slowly soaker hose delivers water so fail to run it long enough to accomplish its purpose.

Most common method I think is some form of light sprinkle - either a sprinkling can or sprinkler of some kind.

Dave

Soaker hoses work fine for watering a garden when they are functioning properly and are much more efficient than overhead watering. Lots of soaker hoses don't hold up well in the long run. I prefer drip irrigation hoses. They work very much like soaker hoses, but can last much longer. Also, because of the way they are designed, they tend to provide more even watering (especially when your system is properly laid out). Drip irrigation is a little more expensive to start with, but over the long run can save lots of money.