Grain production is restricted by many subjective and objective conditions. Water, fertilizer, soil and seeds have great influence on grain, among which seed quality is the key factor. For many years, scientists have been using the traditional research method of "hybridization" to improve varieties. It is true that the improved varieties produced by hybridization have played a great role in increasing grain production. For example, the improved varieties of hybrid rice can increase production in a large area after popularization, which is a successful example. However, only one or several generations of hybrid varieties often have advantages. Therefore, hybrid seed production needs a special "seed field", which greatly limits its development.

The concept of artificial seeds was put forward in 1978.

Artificial seed, also known as artificial seed, is the youngest emerging technology in cell engineering. It was first proposed by British scientists in 1978. He believes that by using the characteristics of somatic embryogenesis and embedding it in capsules, seeds can be formed and planted directly in the field. The idea aroused great interest.

1986, Redenbaugh and others successfully used sodium alginate to wrap single somatic embryos to produce artificial seeds. The production of artificial seeds such as carrots, cotton, corn, cabbage, lettuce and alfalfa is successful.

At present, plant gene companies and university laboratories in many countries are engaged in this research. The research and development of artificial seeds in Europe is included in the "Eureka" plan, and it is also included in China's 1987 National High-tech Research and Development Plan (863 Plan). After more than 20 years' efforts, great progress has been made in the research of artificial seeds.