What Are Ginseng Seeds?

Collecting Seeds

• Collect seeds in the fall when the berries are bright red. To remove the seeds from the fleshy husk of the berry, soak in clean, cool water until the husks become soft enough to remove from the seed. After removal, seeds should be stored in moist sand until time to plant the following spring or fall. It is important to keep sand moist and not allow the seeds to dry out.

Growing Ginseng

• Ginseng grows naturally in hardwood forests of the United States, but there are also ginseng farms. When growing ginseng, there are a few tips to keep in mind: ginseng needs a shaded area and will not grow in direct sunlight; well-drained soil is a must and sometimes raised beds are necessary; ginseng requires loose soil so roots can breathe, and earthworms are beneficial for this purpose; and beds need to be kept weed-free.

Digging and Drying Ginseng Roots

• In the fall, dig roots when the top leaves have died back. The roots do not grow straight into the ground and may be forked, so carefully follow the ground stem until you find the true root. Wash the root as soon as possible, but never scrub. Lay the clean root out on a wire rack or board in the shade to dry, turning it frequently. Never dry in direct sunlight, as it will discolor the root. Drying time will vary by size and drying technique; never dry ginseng in a microwave as it will cause root discoloration.

Tips

• When buying seeds instead of harvesting them, keep purchased seeds cool and moist. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or allow them to dry out. When purchasing roots to plant instead of seeds, replant the root as soon as possible to prevent spoilage and fungus. If you cannot replant either the seeds or the roots right away, place them in the refrigerator.