Method for uptake of a substance into a seed

A method of enhancing a growth characteristic of seed by immersing the seed in an aqueous solution including dissolved inert gas and sonicating the seed at a frequency preferably of between about 15 kHz and about 30 kHz and an energy density of between about 1 watt/cm2 and about 10 watts/cm2 for a period of between 1 minute and about 15 minutes. The sonicated seed exhibits an enhanced growth characteristic including resistance to pests and growth properties consistent with the introduction of essential nutrients. Plants grown from the treated seeds exhibit improved characteristics.