What degree of shade do I need to grow ginseng? Kentucky
To grow ginseng in the woods successfully you will need about 75% shade

Does it matter what type of trees I have or how big they are? Virginia
Yes to some extent it does matter the type and size of your trees.Ginseng does not like to grow under pine trees although a pine here and there is no big problem.Alot of maples can pose a problem because they absorb alot of water from the ground.Generally the bigger the trees the better because of the shade.

I have west facing slopes will this be a problem? Virginia
Ginseng will grow on west facing slopes,you need to be sure there is enough shade and there could be problems with not enough moisture.You may need to irrigate in dry weather but be careful not to apply too much water this will create possible disease problems.Western facing slopes will sometimes have a higher acid content in the soil so you may need to keep this in mind.

I live in Georgia can I grow ginseng here?
Georgia is at the far end of the range for ginseng.If you don't have at least 45 days of weather in the 35 to 36 degree range or around 60 days of 48 degrees or below you will probably not be able to grow ginseng there.Ginseng seems to need the cold weather through the winter to stimulate growth.

If I get into the business of growing ginseng is there a good market for this product? Tennessee
The ginseng market is a market that has seen very good growth and from all indications it should continue to grow in the future.What you make in this market can very widely depending on the style of ginseng you raise i.e.field grown,woods grown,wild simulated.
The prices can run from $15.00 per pound to $300.00 per pound.The quality and look of the roots is a determining factor also.

How long do I have to wait before I can plant my seeds?I was told they would not come up the next year. Tennessee
Ginseng seeds will not sprout for 18 to 20 months after harvest.Most seed being sold is stratified seed,which means it's already been a year since it was harvested.This seed if planted in the fall of 2000 will be up in the spring of 2001.Make sure when you purchase your seed that it is stratified seed.

How long should I grow the roots before harvesting them? Virginia
To receive the best prices for your roots the rule is the older the better if you are talking about wild simulated roots usually from 8 to 15 years.Regular woods grown about 7 years and field grown 4 to 5 years as a general rule.

Are wild roots really any better than any other type? Kentucky
As far as price and demand for the product and what people are looking for in ginseng there is nothing better.

After I get my seeds how do I keep them from going bad? Pennsylvania
Once you get your seeds you should try to get them planted as soon as possible.If you have to store them the crisper drawer in your refrigerator is the best place for them.Put them in a plastic freezer bag with a small amount of moisture in them.Do not make them to wet. Check them regularly and add water as needed.It's a good idea to shuffle the seeds in the bag to get moisture to all the seeds.