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 may be controlled and manipulated , manipulating at least one of the environmental factors to enable and facilitate germination of the somatic embryo , and applying water and / or nutrient solutions at regular intervals , the intervals preferably ranging from 1 minute - 24 hours , to the surface of the substrate in the form of microdroplets , preferably for a period of time ranging between 3 to eight weeks , such that somatic embryo imbibition , germination , growth and development occur . the process can be practiced in non - sterile conditions with “ naked ” fresh and / or hrht - treated and / or desiccated embryos , i . e ., non - encapsulated or otherwise uncoated embryos , and does not require the use of aseptic techniques or sterilized media or equipment .