Encapsulation of somatic embryos is considered to be an effective method for mechanical handling of fragile somatic embryos. Encapsulation method of somatic embryos using sodium alginate and calcium chloride solutions and growth of plantlets from encapsulated embryos were investigated. It was concluded that the optimum hardness of the capsule was 2.0 N/cm2 based on the germination percentage of embryos, growth of plantlets and ease of handling. The growth of the carrot plantlets was promoted by encapsulation of somatic embryos compared with the plantlets from naked, unencapsulated embryos due to the removal of the water and nutrient stress to which embryos are readily exposed at the early stage of development.