Abstract: The present invention provides genomic DNA sequences unique to Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. sepedonicus (Cms) that are useful as probes and primers for the detection of the presence of Cms nucleic acids in a biological sample, e.g., by means of the polymerase chain reaction.

Abstract: The present invention provides manufactured seeds comprising totipotent plant tissue and a hydrated gel, preferably surrounded by a protective seed coat. The cotyledons of the germinating totipotent plant tissue can be enclosed in a shoot restraint that is resistant to penetration by the growing cotyledons. The manufactured seeds can be prepared for long-term storage, e.g., by sparging the hydrated gel with a respiration-limiting gas before, during, or after assembly of the manufactured seed. The seed is then preferably stored in an atmosphere containing levels of a respiration-limiting gas sufficient to keep respiration of the totipotent plant tissue at reduced levels.