With the rising cost and the never ending threat of a ginseng seed shortage. It may be time for you to consider growing your own. I understand that some people may think that its something that they couldn't do. However, its not really that hard, IF you start out small and simple. First things first though,there are some great books to read ,ok at least keep them on hand for a quick reference. They are American Ginseng Green Gold by W.Scott Persons and Ginseng by Kim Derek Pritts. Yes they are very much about commercial growing,but they are loaded with useful information.

How to get started? Well, first things first. How much ginseng do you want to grow? Hmmmmmmm lets say 20 plants.

Location: 70-80% shade, like under or near a few nice size maple or cherry trees (my favorite). You would want them to be planted on the north to north eastside of the trees. Do a simple check when the sun is out,you would want the area nicely shaded most of the day except for some early morning sun.

Soil: You would want a ph range of 5.0 to 6.0. The soil MUST be well drained,on a hill or gentle slope is preferred,the best soil is a dark rich forest soil as one would expect from adult/old growth maple and cherry trees. Pull whatever weeds that might be there and trim or remove the under brush. Becareful while removing the under brush,that it is not part of your shade.

Here are some neat pictures of the ginseng we are growing.

Gallery/Growing-Ginseng

3 year old ginseng rootlets

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