AMERICAN GINSENG
Panax quinquefolius Wild specimens of American Ginseng, sometimes as old as a century or more, have been threatened by poaching and over harvesting. Increased cultivation has helped to preserve this traditional herb. Crops grown in wild simulated conditions can yield as much as $500 a pound at harvest. Considered an adaptogen, ginseng is said to reduce the body’s various stress responses; studies have found energizing, cognitive-enhancing, cancer fighting and overall immune-boosting properties, among others. Native to woodland understory habitats throughout the eastern and central United States, it grows best in 70-90% shade and is ready for harvest in 3-10 years, depending on the growing method. There is a market for select leaves and seeds in the interim. Fresh seeds can take two years to germinate, but ours come pre-stratified for fall sowing to emerge the following spring. Hardy in zones 3-8.Â
Ginseng seeds ship in September/October. Order early for best availability. Detailed planting instructions are included with each order, and may be obtained below.
