The Catskill Mountains are home to wild-grown American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), some of the most sought-after and highest-priced ginseng in the world. Due to its value, not just to humans but forest critters as well, ginseng is under unique pressure from wildlife browse and overharvesting. What better way to help conserve this special plant than to cultivate some yourself?
This workshop is designed to teach you to grow ginseng in your own forest. Anna Plattner and Justin Wexler of Wild Hudson Valley will discuss how to identify ginseng in the wild, explore ginseng’s habitat and its companion plants, and learn how to plant, care for, and responsibly harvest this small but picky plant. Participants will receive free educational materials as well as stratified ginseng seed to do some test plantings at home. Come on out and get ready to grow your own!
Members: $20 | Non-members: $30
This event is limited to 25 participants. If spots are full, you will automatically be added to the waitlist.
Anna and Justin have worked with ginseng for many years. Anna received her BS from Cornell University, where she majored in Natural Resources. After graduating, she trained under Bob Beyfuss, one of the most renowned experts on American ginseng’s history and cultivation.
Justin has a BA in History and Anthropology from Marlboro College in Marlboro, VT; a Professional Certificate in Environmental Policy from Bard College and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Bard College. Obsessed with nature from his earliest years, he has spent most of his life either in the outdoors or in his research on local history and ethnoecology.
