Abstract: A multi-step process by which plant somatic embryos can be sown and germinated ex vitro using conventional seeding equipment, growing mixes, and plant propagation environments. The process most preferably comprises the steps of: placing a somatic embryo on or within a three-phase substrate, the phases comprising solid, liquid and gas phases, placing the substrate containing a somatic embryo into an environmentally-controlled plant-growing environment in which at least one environmental factor (i.e.

Abstract: A multi-step process by which plant somatic embryos can be sown and germinated ex vitro using conventional seeding equipment, growing mixes, and plant propagation environments. The process most preferably comprises the steps of: placing a somatic embryo on or within a three-phase substrate, the phases comprising solid, liquid and gas phases, placing the substrate containing a somatic embryo into an environmentally-controlled plant-growing environment in which at least one environmental factor (i.e.

Abstract: A multi-step process by which plant somatic embryos can be sown and germinated ex vitro using conventional seeding equipment, growing mixes, and plant propagation environments. The process most preferably comprises the steps of: placing a somatic embryo on or within a three-phase substrate, the phases comprising solid, liquid and gas phases, placing the substrate containing a somatic embryo into an environmentally-controlled plant-growing environment in which at least one environmental factor (i.e.

Abstract: A process of producing somatic seedlings from a somatic embryo. The process comprising pre-germinating somatic embryos, placing the pre-germinated somatic embryos into a state of physiological dormancy, sowing the pre-germinated physiologically dormant somatic embryos onto or into germination media, and propagating the sown pre-germinated somatic embryos in environmental conditions manipulated to facilitate imbibition, germination, and development into complete seedlings possessing shoots and roots. Advantageously, the process may be carried out with “naked” embryos (i.e., non-encapsulated or otherwise coated embryos) using conventional seed handling equipment, growing mixes, and plant propagation environments. The process does not require the use of aseptic techniques or sterilized media or equipment. The invention also relates to pre-germinated embryos and seedlings produced by the process.

Abstract: A process of producing somatic seedlings from a somatic embryo. The process comprising pre-germinating somatic embryos, placing the pre-germinated somatic embryos into a state of physiological dormancy, sowing the pre-germinated physiologically dormant somatic embryos onto or into germination media, and propagating the sown pre-germinated somatic embryos in environmental conditions manipulated to facilitate imbibition, germination, and development into complete seedlings possessing shoots and roots. Advantageously, the process may be carried out with “naked” embryos (i.e., non-encapsulated or otherwise coated embryos) using conventional seed handling equipment, growing mixes, and plant propagation environments. The process does not require the use of aseptic techniques or sterilized media or equipment. The invention also relates to pre-germinated embryos and seedlings produced by the process.