Ginseng is cultivated for its root and is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in the world, especially in Asia. Ginseng root is dried and sold whole, powered and sliced. According to the latest Census of Agriculture in 1996, ginseng was grown on 5,814 acres. Industry estimates, however, show area as being closer to 8,600 acres. On average, Ontario accounts for 5,400 acres and B.C. for 3,200 acres.
Most Canadian ginseng is cultivated on raised beds, in fields, and under artificial shade.
Yield Ginseng yield usually refers to dried root yield and varies according to production method and duration. Under artificial shade, ginseng yields an average 0.86 tonnes per acre after a three year period or 1.27 tonnes per acre after four years of growth. Wood-grown ginseng is generally harvested after six years and yields about 0.36 tonnes per acre. Under wild-simulation, a yield of approximately 0.07 tonnes of ginseng per acre can be expected after nine years of growth. Potential yield of ginseng root is reduced by several factors including disease, poor seed and soil quality, as well as weeds.