GROWING GINSENG IN THE FOREST:
(12) Harvesting
by Hsuan H. Huang
- Ginseng should be harvested in late fall as the tops begin to die back, the sap from the plant retreats to the root. At this time the root is at its best, medicinally and weight wise.
- Dig the root carefully do not damage the roots and try to get the entire root.
Forest Ginseng Harvest in China - The root must be washed, do this with a garden hose and water under pressure. Places the roots on a large wire screen and rinse them repeatedly, but do not damage the skin of the roots. The value drops if skin is damaged.
- Woods grown ginseng can be kept growing longer than those under artificial shade. Some grower harvest in five years, other wait ten years or more.
