The anticipated high return of this crop has sparked lots of interest with potential growers in Alberta. Three or four year old roots are the product of commerce. Adaptability of ginseng is still a concern in Alberta because of our adverse weather conditions. Winter kill of the plants can occur in years with very cold temperatures and little snow cover. Commercial yield levels are not yet established for long-term production.
Yields have to be competitive with other ginseng growing areas.
Management practices, particularly with application of mulches, fertility practices, plant stand establishment, and disease control may have to be better defined for Alberta. The future market demand and prices are uncertain 4-5 years from now, particularly when cost of establishment of this crop is high. There is, however, cautious optimism that commercial ginseng production is possible in Alberta. Carbohydrate Crops Quinoa. This is a broadleaf plant, related to Lambsquarter, that produces grain which is used similar to that of cereal grains.