A Complete Analysis of the Latest Precautions for Growing American Ginseng

American ginseng is a type of Panax quinquefolius introduced to China from Europe and America, also known as Xiyangshen or Huaqishen. It has effects such as tonifying qi and nourishing yin, clearing heat and promoting fluid production, as well as relieving fatigue, enhancing memory and alleviating insomnia. It is a relatively expensive medicinal herb. In China, the main producing areas of American ginseng are Shaanxi, Jilin, Heilongjiang and other places. So how is American ginseng grown? What should be paid attention to when planting it? Below we will together learn about the precautions for growing American ginseng.

1. Soil

For planting American ginseng, the soil generally should be relatively fertile farmland, and before planting, the pH of the soil should be tested. Next, the soil should contain a large amount of humus and be relatively loose sandy soil or loam. At the same time, the previous crop in the farmland must not be crops such as radishes, cabbage, melons, fruits or eggplants, so this must be noted when choosing a planting site. Finally, the planting site should also be chosen in a wind-sheltered area to avoid affecting the normal growth of American ginseng.

2. Seed germination

When planting American ginseng, be sure to treat and germinate the seeds. Generally, carbendazim can be used for disinfection and sterilization. Soak for about half an hour, then remove the seeds, rinse off the residual chemicals in clean water, and finally place them in an environment with a temperature of 18 to 20 degrees for germination. Alternatively, soak them in potassium permanganate solution for about 15 to 20 minutes, remove and drain the water, and then they can be germinated. This can improve the resistance of the seeds and the speed of sprouting.

3. Temperature

American ginseng is suitable for growing in a mild and humid environment, but it also has strong cold resistance. As long as the temperature of the planting site is not lower than minus 12 degrees, it generally will not freeze to death. Generally, when the soil temperature reaches about 5 to 7 degrees, sowing can be carried out. At this temperature, it can begin to grow, and when the temperature reaches about 12 degrees, it can emerge. When the temperature is 15 to 20 degrees, it is the most suitable temperature for the growth of American ginseng. Among these, at a temperature of 21 to 22 degrees, it will bloom, but the temperature at sowing is best between 12 and 15 degrees. Above 20 degrees is not conducive to embryo development, so what we need to pay attention to when planting is the scientific regulation of field temperature.

4. Density

Planting density is also very important for the growth of American ginseng. Generally, under normal conditions, we plant at a density of 30 cm between rows and 20 cm between plants. In this way, the field permeability of the planted American ginseng will be better, which is more conducive to nutrient absorption and the growth of American ginseng, and later field operations are also more convenient.

5. Light

The growth of American ginseng is very similar to that of ginseng, so their light requirements are also similar. American ginseng is a shade-loving plant, but this does not mean it does not need light. Therefore, we generally do not choose a place with direct sunlight for planting, or we build a shade shed at the planting site. In this way, the light can be diffused into oblique and scattered light, so this is also a point we need to pay attention to.

6. Humidity

The growth of American ginseng requires a large amount of water. It is a plant that likes moisture and is also tolerant of moisture. The planting humidity generally should be maintained at at least about 55 percent, and when the field moisture is 60 percent, it is the most suitable humidity for the growth of American ginseng. Therefore, we should water reasonably, manage moisture well, and adjust moisture in a timely manner.

7. Fertilizer use

In terms of fertilizer use, the first thing to note is the use of base fertilizer. It is mainly used to improve the soil condition and make the planting site more suitable for the growth of American ginseng. We generally use manure, peat, soybean cake fertilizer and an appropriate amount of phosphate fertilizer and potassium fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer applied is determined according to the fertility of the planting site. Later, topdressing is generally carried out during the vigorous growth period of American ginseng, mainly with phosphate fertilizer, potassium fertilizer and urea. This period is generally from June to August, and topdressing is needed once a month.