Tips For Hunting Wild Ginseng
Wild ginseng root is an excellent natural addition to your diet, and it could add to your wallet as well. Learning how to hunt for wild ginseng is only a matter of collecting the right knowledge through research.
You have to know what you’re looking to find, where to find it, and how to properly harvest and process the root once you do find it. Take a few moments to read through this brief compilation of a few tips to get you on your way to hunting and harvesting wild ginseng.
Know what to pack for the hunt
When you’re heading out to hunt for ginseng, you need to be prepared to traverse the woods. You need to have the tools necessary for harvesting your roots. A pitchfork or needle-nose spade will be perfect for digging up the ginseng you find.
Being on a journey in the woods, you also need to think of survival. You need a reliable weapon for defense in the wild. You can easily purchase a rifle from an online gun store that will boost your safety levels while you’re out on the hunt.
In addition to protection, pack water, some simple foods, and other general camping items, especially if you plan to conquer a couple days of hunting.
Know how to identify the plant
You have to know what you’re looking for to find a harvestable plant. It’s only legal to harvest a ginseng plant that is 5 or more years old, and it’s easy to tell from the roots just how many springs the plant has seen.
Look for a plant with a single stem that ends in a burst of leave (typically 1-4 leaves). Mature ginseng plants have a cluster of whitish green flowers, and some of the plants will have red berries attached.
Know where to hunt for ginseng
You can typically find ginseng growing in heavily shaded, moisture rich, hardwood forests. South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Georgia are three of the most likely areas to spot wild ginseng.
Wherever you choose to start your hunt, it’s good to know the local ginseng hunting laws. Most states require hunters to have a legal permit.
Know how to harvest the root
You have to know how to harvest ginseng without breaking or harming the root itself. When you find a plant that is viable, start your dig at least six inches away from the base of the plant.
Work your way closer to the root of the plant, being careful not to break into the long, potato-looking root. Then gently remove the plant from the ground, and wash the remaining dirt from your find. Dry your root, and it’s ready to be used.
