Growing Gin-sing Is it best to start with the root or the seeds what is the difference?

Question

I want to give my friends ginseng to plant so they can grow and sell it ( i have been told organically grown ginseng has a high market value) they are avid gardeners. But i dont know what to start them out with… how much to get them and so on … also I see that u can start from root or seed…. Whats the difference whats better and any tips otherwise

Answer 1

In the area of a KY where ginseng ('sang) grows wild it can only grow from in ground old stock. That is, pieces of the plant left to take root and grow naturally.

The University of Florida (USF) should have some demographics in their horticulture section on ginseng. I do know from experience, on a farm we owned near Beattyville, KY., that it takes 5-7 years for ginseng to reach maturity and the nodules are what are left in the ground to grow.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Seed takes two years to germinate and ginseng roots are usually harvested when four years old, so starting from seed means the first harvest will be six years from now. The seed needs special treatment to germinate and if mishandled will not germinate so crop is lost.

Starting with one or two year old roots means harvest comes sooner and you do not have to worry about germination success.

Check with your local dept of agriculture, they should be able to help with information and connect you with other ginseng growers.