The float system has been experimented since March 1989 at the Tobacco Institute of Bergerac. A production method based on a nitrogen fertilisation providing the amount strictly necessary to each seedling has been derived. As soon as the seedlings have taken up the whole nitrogen available in the solution, they begin to yellow, their development is stopped and they accumulate dry matter (hardening). At this stage, they can be kept for some time, provided their sanitary condition is monitored. Normal development in the field was obtained with seedlings kept for two to four weeks before transplanting. This method was spread successfully with the French growers by C.F.P.P.T. since 1991 and, in 1994, floating mini-clods accounted for 15% of the seedbeds. Tobacco growers are very satisfied with this technique and find but a few drawbacks with it : need to use pelleted seed exclusively, higher sensitivity of the seedlings to Botrytis. In contrast, the reported pros are many : - no more need for methyl bromide disinfection; - facilitated germination; - no more need for irrigation and unplanting; - hardened seedlings easy to transplant and resistant to high temperatures; - seedlings available for several weeks if weather conditions prevent transplanting.