Introduction
In Marathon County, Wisconsin, ginseng isn't just a crop – it's a way of life. This region produces 95% of the United States' American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and is widely regarded as the best place to grow American ginseng. What makes Marathon County ginseng so special? The answer lies in its unique terroir – the combination of glaciated mineral-rich soil, cold winters with distinct seasonal cycles, excellent drainage, and generations of cultivation know-how.
These factors give Wisconsin-grown ginseng a potent chemical profile and prized flavor that set it apart from ginseng grown in Canada or China. In this article, we explore how central Wisconsin's terroir creates premium ginseng roots, compare Wisconsin ginseng vs. Chinese ginseng (and Canadian), and celebrate the heritage of ginseng farming in Marathon County.
Marathon County: The Best Place to Grow American Ginseng
Marathon County's terroir provides ideal conditions for cultivating American ginseng. In fact, Wisconsin is one of the best places in the world to grow ginseng. Like fine wine grapes, ginseng reflects the environment it's grown in – and central Wisconsin's environment is unmatched for this crop.
Several natural factors contribute to Marathon County's reputation as the ginseng capital of the world:
Mineral-Rich Glacial Soils
During the last Ice Age, glaciers sculpted the landscape of central Wisconsin, depositing fertile soils in Marathon County. The result is a loamy, nutrient-rich soil with abundant minerals and excellent structure for root growth. Local farmers describe it as "virgin glacier soil" that is fast-draining yet rich in trace minerals.
Ginseng roots spend 3–5 years in this soil, absorbing its minerals and "picking up the taste and flavor profile of the soil" much like terroir influences wine. Glacial till gives Wisconsin ginseng a certain minerality and earthy bitterness that can't be replicated elsewhere.
Key soil characteristics:
- Ideal pH around 5.5
- High organic content
- Balanced sandy loam composition
- Excellent drainage without being too sandy
As Will Hsu, a second-generation ginseng farmer, explains: "The soil in this area is glacial… with unique mineral characteristics that can't be replicated elsewhere," giving Wisconsin ginseng its distinct taste.
Cold Winters and Seasonal Cycles
Another hallmark of Wisconsin's terroir is its long, cold winter – a critical factor for ginseng. Ginseng plants require a winter dormancy period; freezing temperatures trigger the roots to go into rest and recharge for the next growing season.
Marathon County's frigid winters provide exactly this dormant period that ginseng needs. Each spring, the plants re-emerge vigorous, then grow slowly under the temperate summer before going dormant again in fall. This annual cycle of dormancy and growth allows ginseng to develop high concentrations of active compounds over several years.
Jackie Fett, Executive Director of the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin, notes that ginseng "likes the cold" here – "every winter it goes dormant and then comes back in the spring… then it goes dormant again."
Climate advantages:
- Average temperature ~50°F
- 40–50 inches of annual precipitation
- Distinct seasonal variation
- Mimics ginseng's native hardwood forest habitat
Gentle Topography and Well-Drained Land
Marathon County features rolling hills and gentle topography that further enhances its terroir. Ginseng thrives on well-drained sites – too much soil moisture can invite disease or root rot.
The combination of slightly sloping terrain and the granular structure of glacial soils provides natural drainage. Water percolates through easily, preventing waterlogging around the delicate roots. Local growers emphasize that drainage is the most important factor in preventing disease in ginseng cultivation.
Topographical benefits:
- Rolling hills with natural drainage
- North- or east-facing slopes with ample shade
- Soils that "breathe" well
- Deep, loamy soil about 12 inches deep
Wisconsin vs. Canadian vs. Chinese Ginseng: Terroir & Quality Compared
Ginseng is grown in several parts of the world, but not all ginseng is equal. American ginseng from Wisconsin often draws comparisons to Canadian-grown ginseng and to Asian (Chinese/Korean) ginseng. How do they stack up in terms of soil, climate, cultivation practices, and phytochemical profile?
Soil and Climate Differences
Both Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada share a temperate climate and were shaped by glaciation, yet their soils differ in composition. Wisconsin's Marathon County has glacial loam with a mix of sand, silt, and clay – providing fertility and structure for ginseng roots.
Regional soil comparisons:
- Wisconsin: Glacial loam with balanced sand, silt, and clay composition
- Ontario, Canada: Sandy soils that are extremely well-drained, reducing disease pressure but producing more slender roots
- Northeast China: Well-drained mountain forest soils rich in organic matter
Marathon County's soil and climate consistently produce ginseng with high potency and desired flavor. Both Wisconsin and Ontario have cold winters required for dormancy, but Wisconsin's slightly cooler growing season may slow development just enough to concentrate more flavor.
Ontario's climate is moderated by the Great Lakes, with slightly milder winters and frequent spring frosts. In Northeast China, the climate can be harsher with very cold winters and hot humid summers, where Asian ginseng is often harvested at 5–6 years.
Cultivation Practices and Tradition
Cultivation methods also influence ginseng quality, and here Marathon County's century of expertise shines. In Wisconsin and Ontario alike, farmers cultivate ginseng under artificial shade structures to mimic forest shade.
Marathon County's cultivation advantages:
- Over 100 years of cultivation expertise
- Pioneered shade-grown cultivation in 1904
- Multi-generational family operations
- Abundant arable land for proper rotation
- Refined cultivation practices passed down through generations
Wisconsin growers typically plant ginseng seeds in autumn, let them stratify through the winter, and nurture the crop for 3 to 5 years under 75% shade. Canadian growers follow a similar cycle, often harvesting after 3 or 4 years due to disease pressure.
As Will Hsu notes, despite ginseng being grown in parts of Canada and China, "the taste and flavor of that ginseng grown outside of Wisconsin is not the same" – a testament to both nature and nurture in Wisconsin's favor.
Ginsenoside Content and Flavor Profile
Perhaps the most critical comparison is the chemical profile of ginseng roots from different regions. Ginseng's medicinal value is largely attributed to compounds called ginsenosides (a class of triterpene saponins).
Key chemical differences:
- American ginseng (Wisconsin/Ontario): 40–60 ginsenosides per gram, cooling "yin" character, high Rb1 content
- Asian ginseng (China/Korea): 20–40 mg/g ginsenosides, heating "yang" effect, rich in Rg1 and Rb2
- Rb1:Rg1 ratio: Wisconsin/Canadian ginseng typically >5:1 (more calming), Asian ginseng has lower ratio (more stimulating)
These chemical differences manifest in taste: Wisconsin ginseng is notably more bitter due to high Rb1 and other "cool" saponins, with a sweet finish. Asian ginseng can taste sharper or even licorice-sweet from Rg1 and other compounds.
Chinese consumers actually prefer the bitterness – "The Chinese have a saying: the more bitter, the better," notes Ron Rambadt of the Ginseng Board. This is why Wisconsin-grown American ginseng is coveted in Asia for its stronger medicinal flavor and potency.
A scientific study comparing American ginseng from Wisconsin, Ontario, and five Chinese provinces found significant regional variation in ginsenoside content. Canadian-grown ginseng had the highest total levels of key ginsenosides, while ginseng from certain Chinese provinces had the lowest. Wisconsin ginseng also ranked among the top for ginsenoside concentration.
Detailed Regional Comparison
| Factor | Wisconsin (Marathon County) | Ontario, Canada | Northeast China (Jilin & Asia) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil | Glacial sandy loam; rich in minerals and organic matter; well-drained, loamy structure. Imparts earthy bitterness to roots. | Very sandy loam soils (former tobacco fields) for excellent drainage. Lower organic matter; can yield slender roots if too sandy. | Well-drained mountain forest soils rich in organic matter. Varies by province - some regions less ideal for American ginseng. |
| Climate | Cool temperate; warm summers (~70°F), cold winters (~16°F in Jan). ~30–35″ annual rainfall. Long winter dormancy period essential for ginseng. | Cool temperate; slightly milder winters near Great Lakes. Similar rainfall ~30–35″. Cold enough for dormancy, but spring frosts common. | Continental; very cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers. Mountain regions have high rainfall. Some Chinese regions have less winter chill, affecting quality. |
| Cultivation | Artificial shade (70–80%) over fields. 4–5 year growth cycle. Generations of family farms refine methods. Harvested roots are large, gnarly and light-colored – premium "wild-like" appearance. | Artificial shade similar to WI. Often 3–4 year cycle due to higher disease pressure. Many growers are former tobacco farmers. Canadian roots often slightly smaller but high quality. | Asian ginseng traditionally grown in shaded mountain gardens. ~5–6 year cycle. For American ginseng in China, shade-house cultivation used, often learning from WI/Canadian techniques. |
| Ginsenoside Profile | High total ginsenosides (often 40+ mg/g). Rich in Rb1, Re, Rd. Rb1:Rg1 ratio >5:1 (more calming "cool" saponins). Known for strong bitter taste and aroma. | Similarly high in total ginsenosides (comparable to WI). One study found Ontario roots had the highest combined Rb1+Re+Rg1 content. Rb1 ~55% of total ginsenosides. | Asian ginseng has lower total saponin content (20–40 mg/g). Higher Rg1 and Rb2 than American species. Rb1:Rg1 ratio <5, hence warming (yang) effect. American ginseng grown in China varies by province. |
As the table highlights, Wisconsin's terroir gives its ginseng a distinct advantage. While Canadian and Chinese ginseng each have their merits, Marathon County's combination of fertile soil, perfect climate, refined techniques, and long-developed plant chemotypes produces what many consider the world's best ginseng.
It's no coincidence that Chinese importers historically paid a premium for Wisconsin ginseng, and that "ginseng coming from Wisconsin… is not the same in flavor profile" as that from other regions.
Generations of Ginseng Farming Heritage in Marathon County
Marathon County's ginseng success is not just about nature – it's also about people. The region's growers have over a century of experience cultivating American ginseng, creating a rich heritage of intergenerational expertise and cultural practices that bolster the industry. This human terroir, so to speak, has been vital in Marathon County producing the world's best ginseng.
Early Pioneers and Family Traditions
Ginseng has been gathered and valued in Wisconsin for centuries (Indigenous communities used wild ginseng medicinally long before commercial cultivation). But the cultivation of ginseng in Marathon County began in earnest in the early 1900s.
The Fromm brothers – Walter, John, Edward, and Henry – are legendary as the first major ginseng farmers in the area. In 1904, on their farm in the town of Hamburg (near Wausau), the Fromms transplanted wild ginseng roots into gardens under slatted wood shelters. By carefully duplicating the plant's natural forest conditions, they achieved what earlier growers in other states had failed to do – successfully cultivate ginseng on a commercial scale.
The Fromm Legacy:
- Pioneered commercial ginseng cultivation in 1904
- Developed the shade-grown cultivation method
- Established Marathon County as the ginseng capital
- Created the foundation for today's multi-generational farms
As Will Hsu notes, the Fromm brothers "established the industry in Central Wisconsin… that's why many farmers to this day are still in Marathon County." Indeed, many of today's ginseng farms are multi-generation family operations descended from these early growers.
For example, the Monk family, co-founders of Marathon Ginseng Gardens, have farmed ginseng in Wisconsin for four generations. This means knowledge about soil preparation, pest control, harvest timing, and processing of the roots has been passed down like heirlooms.
Such continuity has preserved invaluable traditional techniques while also fostering incremental innovation. Many families have weathered the ups and downs of the ginseng market over decades, only strengthening their commitment.
As one local farmer put it, ginseng farming is a "traditional agricultural operation" in Marathon County – even with modern machinery, critical tasks like planting seeds and selecting roots are still often done by hand with care. Each generation trains the next, ensuring that the hard-earned wisdom is not lost.
This living heritage gives Wisconsin growers an edge over newer ginseng producers elsewhere. It's not uncommon to find third- or fourth-generation ginseng farmers in Marathon County who have literally grown up among the shade houses and have an intuitive understanding of the crop that can't be taught from textbooks alone.
Cultural Diversity and Community Practices
Adding to this heritage, Marathon County's ginseng industry has been enriched by diverse cultures – notably the Hmong community and immigrants from East Asia. In the 1970s and 1980s, Wisconsin saw an influx of Hmong refugees from Southeast Asia. Many Hmong families settled in central Wisconsin, and, coming from agrarian backgrounds, they found work in the ginseng fields of Marathon County.
Hired as field hands, Hmong workers became essential to planting, weeding, and harvesting – especially during the labor-intensive berry picking and root digging seasons. Over time, some Hmong Wisconsinites saved enough to start their own small ginseng farms or to take on larger roles in the industry.
Cultural contributions to ginseng farming:
- Hmong community: Brought agricultural expertise and perspectives on herbal medicine
- Knowledge exchange: Blending of traditional Wisconsin farming with Hmong cultivation techniques
- Collaborative practices: Neighbors sharing tips on disease control and marketing cooperation
- Global connections: Chinese buyers creating East-meets-Midwest cultural exchanges
By the 2010s, it was reported that many of Marathon County's roughly 150 ginseng farms were run by Hmong and other immigrant growers as older growers retired. The Hmong community brought not only labor, but also their own perspectives on cultivation and herbal medicine.
This blending of traditions – old Wisconsin farming families working alongside Hmong growers – created a vibrant exchange of knowledge. For instance, Hmong farmers introduced new techniques in seed stratification or garden layout derived from their ancestral practices, while learning American marketing and distribution from established Wisconsin growers.
The community aspect is strong: neighbors often share tips on combating diseases or cooperate in marketing co-ops to export their crop. What was once a "close-mouthed" and secretive trade became more collaborative as growers realized they faced common challenges like international competition and tariff wars.
Organizations like the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin (founded in 1986) further unified farmers across cultural lines, providing research, promotion, and quality standards for Wisconsin Ginseng as a brand. This cooperation helps maintain the premium image of Marathon County's product worldwide.
Culturally, ginseng farming has even influenced local traditions – during the October harvest season, it's not unusual to see buyers from Hong Kong and mainland China flock to Wausau, creating a unique East-meets-Midwest scene that has become part of Marathon County's identity.
In short, the heritage of ginseng farming in Marathon County is a tapestry of German-American pioneers, multi-generation Wisconsin families, Hmong American labor and entrepreneurship, and global Chinese trade connections – all bound by the shared goal of growing the world's finest ginseng.
Marathon Ginseng Gardens: Harnessing Terroir for Premium Roots
One shining example of how local terroir and tradition translate into success is Marathon Ginseng Gardens. Based in the heart of Marathon County, Marathon Ginseng Gardens benefits immensely from the region's unique growing conditions – and they leverage those conditions to produce premium Wisconsin ginseng roots of exceptional quality.
Founded in 2010 by Dr. Ming Tao Jiang (MD, PhD) along with the Monk family (fourth-generation ginseng farmers), the company was built on the principle that terroir + expertise = world-class ginseng.
Leveraging Natural Advantages
Situated on nutrient-rich virgin glacial soil, the farm enjoys the mineral bounty that central Wisconsin soil offers. This soil, combined with long, cold winters, yields ginseng roots with an "exceptionally strong aroma and unique bittersweet flavor."
Marathon Ginseng Gardens' terroir advantages:
- Rich, fast-draining glacial soil
- Gentle topography with natural drainage
- Long winters that boost ginsenoside accumulation
- Clean glacial earth that imparts trace elements
- Optimal positioning to capitalize on seasonal rhythms
Marathon Ginseng Gardens explicitly recognizes that their soil, topography, and climate are competitive advantages – these factors ensure their ginseng develops maximum potency and flavor in the 4-5 years underground. The farm's ginseng plots are positioned and managed to capitalize on natural drainage and seasonal rhythms, reducing the need for heavy chemical intervention.
Scientific Excellence Meets Traditional Wisdom
Marathon Ginseng Gardens marries this terroir with scientific cultivation practices. Dr. Jiang and his team meticulously nurture their ginseng plants to maximize ginsenoside content. They monitor soil health, use careful crop rotation, and harvest at peak maturity to ensure each root meets high standards.
The result is ginseng that consistently tests high in key active compounds and meets the premium grade sought in international markets. Their flagship Monk Garden® Ginseng brand has earned trust globally for its quality – it's even been presented as a gift at the White House and earned accolades like the U.S.–China Business Leadership Award in 2017.
Quality assurance measures:
- FDA-registered facility with cGMP processing
- Scientific monitoring of ginsenoside content
- Careful crop rotation and soil health management
- Peak maturity harvesting for maximum quality
- Combination of Monk family wisdom with modern quality controls
Importantly, being located in Marathon County means Marathon Ginseng Gardens can truthfully label its products as "100% Wisconsin Ginseng", a mark of quality recognized in Asia. Chinese consumers know that genuine Wisconsin roots carry a certain prestige and efficacy.
As Will Hsu noted, if you talk to Chinese ginseng buyers, "they know Wisconsin grows ginseng" – and they often prefer it because of the terroir-driven flavor and strength. Marathon Ginseng Gardens directly benefits from this reputation.
In summary, Marathon Ginseng Gardens thrives because it is of Marathon County. The very land and climate that make Marathon County special for ginseng are the foundation of the farm's success. By expertly harnessing the glacial soil's nutrients, the winter cold, and the community's generations of knowledge, Marathon Ginseng Gardens consistently produces some of the finest American ginseng in the world.
Conclusion
From the mineral-laden soils left by ancient glaciers to the crisp Wisconsin winters that signal rebirth each spring, Wisconsin's terroir is the secret behind Marathon County's world's-best ginseng. No other place combines all the necessary ingredients – the right soil, climate, drainage, and human touch – in quite the same way.
As we've seen, this terroir yields American ginseng roots with unparalleled flavor and phytochemical richness, distinguishing them from Canadian or Chinese ginseng. It has fostered a century-old farming tradition in Marathon County, where families and communities have honed their craft and passed it down through generations, all in service of this remarkable root.
The result is a product that global consumers recognize as the gold standard: Marathon County ginseng. Whether it's the connoisseurs in Hong Kong savoring the bitterness of a Wisconsin root or wellness enthusiasts in the U.S. seeking out premium ginseng roots for their reputed health benefits, the consensus is clear – there's something special in Wisconsin's ground.
As one report put it, "Wisconsin's cooler climate and rich, well-draining glacial soil" give its ginseng qualities "not found in ginseng that's grown elsewhere." In other words, it's all about terroir.
For anyone looking to experience the best ginseng has to offer, Marathon County's farms – like Marathon Ginseng Gardens – are the ultimate source. They capture the essence of Wisconsin's land in each root, delivering a potent little piece of that terroir to consumers worldwide.
In the end, the story of Wisconsin ginseng is a story of how place and people together can create a product that stands head and shoulders above the rest. Marathon County produces the world's best ginseng because its soil, climate, and heritage make it the best – a true testament to Wisconsin's one-of-a-kind terroir.
Experience the terroir advantage with our premium Marathon County ginseng and taste the difference that Wisconsin's unique environment and heritage makes.
References
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- Wang, C.Z., & Yuan, C.S. “Ginsenosides from American Ginseng: Chemical and Pharmacological Diversity.” Phytochemistry, 2011. PMC
- Yu, et al. “Factors Influencing Cultivated Ginseng Bioactive Compounds.” PLOS ONE, 2019. nature.com
- Spectrum News. “It’s in the Soil: Wisconsin’s Ginseng is World Renowned.” January 2020. spectrumnews1.com
- OMAFRA. “So You Want to Grow Ginseng? Considerations and Cautions.” February 2014. onspecialtycrops.ca
- UW-Extension Agronomy. “Ginseng” Crop Profile. Circa 1990s. corn.aae.wisc.edu
- Smithsonian Folklife, Davis Moore. “American Ginseng and the Hmong People.” June 2019. festival.si.edu
- Marathon Ginseng Gardens. About Marathon Ginseng. 3mginseng.com