How to Dig Ginseng and Medicinal Plants

Check permit requirements before you start digging. While previously abundant in the United States, ginseng is currently considered an endangered species in some states. To avoid getting into trouble, see if digging ginseng root is allowed in your area.

Dress appropriately. Be sure to keep your legs and arms protected. Bring an insecticide with you to keep insects away during your dig.

Look for the ginseng plant. Ginseng roots that are too young will be useless. A mature ginseng plant has green leaves with three prongs each in a group of five, and there should be a cluster of red berries at the center of the plant. The ginseng plant should have five clusters of green leaves at the very least; otherwise it is not ideal for harvesting.

Measure six inches from the stem of the plant and start digging around its perimeter. Dig down, until you see the ginseng root. Use the small trowel to remove the ginseng plant from the soil.

Loosen the soil in the roots, until the main root becomes clearly visible. Continue digging slowly, until everything is exposed -- the main root, the tail, and the branch roots.

Scoop up the ginseng plant and its roots -- make sure they are all intact -- with a trowel. Remove as much dirt from the soil as possible.