Ginseng Growing and Processing

The growing and processing of ginseng is a great way to increase the amount of vitamins in the body. However, it also requires a lot of dedication and effort to produce a quality product. There are several steps to follow to ensure the success of the harvest, and some of these steps are listed in this article.

Planting

Ginseng growing and processing can be challenging. It is important to be well-informed and to use the correct techniques. In the early years, the care of ginseng is crucial. You should make sure your soil is well-drained, and that the area is protected from weather extremes. Also, you should be careful of damping off fungus, which can cause the stems to collapse.

Before you begin planting, you should consider the local regulations. Check with your state's agriculture department, local extension service, or other government agencies. There may be special permits required for commercial harvesting.

For starters, you should choose a site that is not used frequently by others. This will help prevent weeds from thriving. Ideally, the area should be sloping and in shade. The ginseng plant will also grow best in a well-drained, sandy soil.

Ginseng can be propagated through seeds, root, or both. Roots are the most successful, and they can be harvested to sell for a good price.

Harvesting

During the harvest season, the leaves of ginseng turn bright gold. The flowers are grouped in an umbel at the center of each leaf. These flowers start blooming in mid-spring and continue through summer.

To harvest ginseng, you'll need to have a few important tools on hand. Some growers will make their own digging tools, like hand trowels and mattocks.

You should also look into marketing your harvest. The price of ginseng has remained steady in recent years. But to ensure you get the most out of your investment, you'll need to carefully research your options.

Aside from being a healthy food, ginseng roots are valued for their medicinal value. They have been prized for centuries in Chinese and Native American cultures.

To harvest ginseng, you'll want to dig down to the root. Then, carefully remove the roots. If you do this too quickly, you may end up with moldy sections. Also, the root will shrink as it dries.

Grading

The Agricultural Marketing Service of the Department of Agriculture has proposed revisions to United States Standards for Grades of Cultivated Ginseng. These revisions would enhance the quality and consistency of ginseng marketing in the global economy.

The proposed revisions would include adding tolerances for each grade. They would also amend the definitions of each grade. For example, a grade of "Small" could now be defined as having a root length of five or fewer inches. This definition of "Small" would also include the "wrinkle" texture as an attribute.

There are many factors that influence the quality of a ginseng root. Among the most important are consistent temperature and humidity and good air flow around the root. A well formed, intact root can command the highest price.

Some growers use screens to provide airflow to the ginseng roots during drying. In addition, some growers construct drying closets to ensure the best drying conditions.

Another issue is that ginseng is susceptible to several pests. Cutworms and slugs may be problems in specific sites.

Marketing

Ginseng is a valuable product that has been consumed by many people for more than 1000 years. It is now used as a health food. The market for health products with ginseng functions is expected to grow globally.

Ginseng is cultivated in the US, Canada, China, and South Korea. While some ginseng is grown in the wild, most is produced in the cultivated varieties.

In the United States, the cultivated ginseng is grown with irrigation, fertilizer, and pesticides. Wood-cultivated ginseng is a form of cultivated ginseng that is produced in shaded forests.

Cultivated American ginseng is the most common variety of ginseng. It can grow to 6-8 years of age. It is best grown in a temperate climate and in cooler areas.

When ginseng is harvested, it should be carefully removed from the ground. Make sure to keep the roots intact and with the neck attached. Never store ginseng in plastic.

To begin a ginseng business, first find a suitable site. Contact the Forestry Department for advice. Pick a site that is not widely used by others.