GROWING GINSENG IN THE FOREST:
(3) Choosing a Site

by Hsuan H. Huang

1. Raising ginseng can range from a part-time proposition to a full-time job depending on the scale of operation. But you always get the winter off.
   
   
2. There are several reasons to grow ginseng in the woods: First, it is much easier and less time consuming; Second, the expenses are a fraction of an artificial shade beds; And most importantly, the roots bring two to three times the price of cultivated ginseng.
   
   
3. In choosing a site for your garden, bear in mind you need at least 75% shade on a north or northeast slope. The south slope should be avoided if possible. And no single spot should have direct sunshine for longer than say 15 minutes at a time.
   
   
4. When you pick your site, just remember to check it for some basic requirements: shade, moisture, soil condition and air circulation.
   
   
5. Shade: 70-80% is necessary. Too much shade causes slower growth; too less: the soil dries up too fast, burns the ginseng leaves, slows growth and increases susceptibility to diseases (because soil temperature is too warm). Midday sunlight is the most damaging to ginseng if not properly shaded. Diffused indirect light work best for ginseng. Evergreen forest is not suitable for ginseng crop due to extreme acid condition created by the decomposition of fallen needles.
   
   
6. Moisture: the garden should not be in a swamp. Soil with proper moisture for ginseng growing should not ball up in your hand when squeezed. It should lightly adhere to your skin. In choosing a site for a ginseng garden, try to pick one with natural moisture. Moist spots can be identified by the abundance of plants on the forest floor. Solomon’s seal, cohosh, wild ginger, all thrive only in moist soil. Most ferns will only grow where moisture is present. These kinds of places are where you should locate your gardens.
   
   
7. Soil conditions: many areas in the forest are half rocks. Large rocks should be removed. If they are smaller than egg size, you can leave them. Small rocks provide drainage, while large rocks will damage to your tilling equipment. Black soil tells us there is much leaf mold present. The depth of this top layer can run from practically nothing to several inches deep. Leaf mold is very rich in minerals and other nutrients necessary for good ginseng growth. The soil pH should be from 4.5 to 6.5, 6.0 is ideal. Maple, Basswood and Beech are usually found in the 5.0 to 7.0 pH ranges.
   
   
8. Air circulation is important in preventing diseases in a ginseng garden; stagnant air causes fungus to take hold on ginseng plants.