Ginseng grows naturally in low nitrogen but high potash and phosphorus acidic soils. Make up a combination of well-decomposed leaves and straw. Begin ginseng plants with rootlets. They are more expensive than seed but are two years advanced. Ginseng takes several years to mature.
Seed is obtainable year round where rootlets are only during winter.
Plant three or four rootlets per pot and cover with 20-25mm of soil. Sow twelve seeds per pot at a depth twice the diameter of the seed. Avoid compacting soil. Apply rain or distilled water. You might like to cover the pots or boxes with clear plastic over wire frames or use a glasshouse.