GIES Case Study on
Ji'an Forest-Grown Panax Ginseng Temperate Conifer-Broadleaf Mixed
Forest in Huadian Town
ZHU Wenbin1 WANG Fei2 ZHAO Zhenchang1,3 CUI Xueyong4 XIANG Lifu2 WEI Guoyong5 WANG Ming6 HOU Jun7 LI Quan8 LIU Jinxiu9 YAO Ying9 LIU Hongbo9 SUN Jiuchun10 BAI Hongguang11
1 Institute of
Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research，Chinese Academy of Sciences，Beijing 100101，China
2 Ji'an Municipal
Administration for Market Regulation，Ji'an 134200，China
3 University of
Chinese Academy of Sciences，Beijing 101408，China
4 The People's
Government of Huadian Town，Ji'an City，Jilin Province，Ji'an 134200，China
5 The People's
Government of Ji'an Municipality，Jilin Province，Ji'an 134200，China
6 Ji'an Ginseng
Association，Jilin Province，Ji'an 134200，China
7 Ji'an Tianli
Ecological Agriculture Co.，Ltd.，Jilin Province，Ji'an 134200，China
8 Ji'an Shenquantang Ginseng Planting Professional
Cooperative，Jilin Province，Ji'an 134200，China
9 China
University of Geosciences, Beijing，Beijing 100083，China
10 Jilin Binde
Participation Co.，Ltd.，Ji'an 134200，China
11 Jilin Hongwuwei Biological Technology Co.，Ltd.，Ji'an 134200，China
Abstract:
Forest-grown Panax ginseng refers to ginseng produced by manual
sowing in forest environments that simulate wild habitats, followed by natural
growth without human intervention. Ji’an City, situated at the southern
foothills of the Laoling Mountains within the Changbai Mountain range,
possesses distinct climatic advantages within Jilin Province, including the
highest average annual precipitation, the highest accumulated temperature, the
lowest average wind speed, and the longest frost-free period. The widespread
coniferous-broadleaf mixed forests provide an optimal ecological environment
for the growth and development of forest-grown Panax ginseng, making the
region a core production area. Huadian Town, a key township for ginseng
distribution in Ji’an, offers favorable soil and hydrological conditions.
Ginseng cultivated in this environment fully exhibits
the “Five Forms and Six Bodies” morphological characteristics required under
the national standard Identification and grade quality standards of wild
ginseng (GB/T 18765-2015). Furthermore, its chemical
composition—specifically total saponins, ginsenoside Rb1, and
ginsenosides Re+Rg1—consistently exceeds the threshold values
specified in the same standard. By 2024, the cultivation area of forest-grown Panax
ginseng in Ji’an reached 146,000 mu, with the total output value of the
ginseng industry chain reaching RMB 16 billion, making it the largest trading
and distribution center for wild ginseng in China. This dataset compiles and
analyzes habitat data from the temperate coniferous-broadleaf mixed forest case
study area in Huadian Town, Ji’an. The GIES case dataset includes: (1)
case area boundary; (2) physical geography data; (3) product characteristic
data of Ji’an forest-grown Panax ginseng; (4) socio-economic data; (5)
photos. The dataset is archived in .xlsx, .shp, .tif, .jpg, .pdf and .docx
formats, comprising 85 files with a total size of 36.5 MB (18.2 MB compressed).
Keywords: Ji’an; forest-grown Panax ginseng; Changbai Mountain; GIES; Case 31
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3974/geodp.2026.03.03
CSTR: https://cstr.escience.org.cn/CSTR:20146.14.2026.03.03
1
Introduction
As one of the most
valued herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ginseng (Panax ginseng
C.A. Meyer) has been utilized for thousands of years due to its diverse
pharmacological effects, including promoting blood cell regeneration and
regulating endocrine, metabolic, and the central nervous system functions[1-2].
Wild ginseng resources are now nearly depleted and have been designated as a
Class I nationally protected species in China. As a result, current production
mainly relies on field cultivation and forest-based conservation, producing
“garden ginseng” and “forest-grown Panax ginseng,” respectively.
Forest-grown Panax ginseng (also known as “under-forest seeds” or
“wild-simulated ginseng”) is cultivated by sowing seeds in forest environments
that mimic natural habitats, where the plants grow without further human
intervention for at least 15 years[3-4].
Compared with garden ginseng, this cultivation method enables forest-grown Panax
ginseng to develop morphological features—traditionally described as the “Five Forms and Six Bodies”—and
quality characteristics similar to those of wild
ginseng[5-6].
Ji’an serves as the core production area for Changbai Mountain ginseng and has
maintained a long-standing traditional of mountain harvesting since the Qing
Dynasty[7].
Its superior product quality is attributed to several key environmental
factors: the unique coniferous-broadleaf mixed forest ecosystem of the Laoling
Mountains on the southern slopes of the Changbai Mountain range, a temperate
continental monsoon climate with favorable hydrothermal conditions, and
nutrient-rich volcanic soils.
Based on the
technical specifications of the “Global Change Research Data Publishing &
Repository” (GCdataPR) World Data Center and the “Landmark Habitat” initiative,
this study develops a comprehensive research dataset for the landmark habitat
of forest-grown Panax ginseng in the temperate coniferous-broadleaf
mixed forest of Huadian Town, Ji’an. The dataset aims to provide a scientific
basis for ecological conservation and the sustainable development of forest-grown
ginseng resources in Ji’an City[8-10].
2
Metadata of the Dataset
Detailed
specifications of the “GIES
Case Dataset on Ji'an Forest-grown Panax Ginseng Temperate
Conifer-Broadleaf Mixed Forest in Huadian Town”[11]—including
the dataset title, author affiliations, geographical scope, temporal coverage,
data formats, dataset composition, publication and sharing platforms, and data
sharing policies—are systematically presented in Table 1.
Table 1
Metadata summary of GIES Case Dataset
on Ji'an Forest-grown Panax Ginseng Temperate Conifer-Broadleaf Mixed
Forest in Huadian Town
|
Items |
Description |
|
Dataset
full name |
GIES
Case Dataset on Ji'an Forest-grown Panax Ginseng Temperate
Conifer-Broadleaf Mixed Forest in Huadian Town |
|
Dataset
short name |
Ji’anGinsengCase31 |
|
Authors |
Zhu, W. B.,
Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, zhuwb@igsnrr.ac.cn Wang, F.,
Ji’an Municipal Administration for Market Regulation, 78530413@qq.com Zhao, Z. C.,
Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences,
2558253110@qq.com, 15180396378@qq.com Cui, X. Y.,
The People’s Government of Huadian Town Xiang, L. F.,
Ji’an
Municipal Administration for Market Regulation, 576325664@qq.com Wei, G. Y.,
The People’s Government of Ji’an Municipality Wang, M.,
Ji’an Ginseng Association Hou, J.,
Ji’an Tianli Ecological Agriculture Co.，Ltd., Jilin Province, 15180396378@qq.com Li, Q., Ji’an Shenquantang Ginseng
Planting Professional Cooperative, 18827935273@qq.com Liu, J. X.,
China University of Geosciences, Beijing, jinxiuliu@cugb.edu.cn Yao, Y.,
China University of Geosciences, Beijing, yaoying20010820@163.com |
|
（续表） |
|
|
Items |
Description |
|
Authors |
Liu, H. B.,
China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 1937849173@qq.com Sun, J. C., Jilin
Binde Participation Co., Ltd., lnsxbm@163.com Bai, H. G.,
Jilin Hongwuwei Biological Technology Co., Ltd.,
1018030202@qq.com |
|
Geographic
region |
Ji’an City (125°34′33″E–126°32′48″e,
40°52′7″N–41°35′18″N) |
|
Data
year |
2025 |
|
Data
formats |
.xlsx、.shp、.tif、.jpg、.docx |
|
Data
size |
36.5 MB (18.2
MB compressed) |
|
Dataset
composition |
(1) case area boundary; (2) physical
geography data; (3) product characteristic data of Ji’an forest-grown Panax
ginseng; (4) socio-economic data; (5) photos. |
|
Foundation |
Jilin
Provincial Administration for Market Regulation (2025) |
|
Data
publisher |
Global Change Research Data Publishing
& Repository
(http://www.geodoi.ac.cn) |
|
Address |
No.11A, Datun
Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China |
|
Data
sharing policy |
(1) The
dataset is openly accessible and can be freely downloaded online; (2) End
users are encouraged to use Data subject to citation; (3) Users, who are by
definition also value-added service providers, are welcome to redistribute
Data subject to written permission from the GCdataPR Editorial Office and the
issuance of a Data redistribution license; and (4) When used to compile new
datasets, the “10%
principal” applies: Data from this dataset must not exceed 10% of the new
dataset, and sources must be clearly acknowledged[12] . |
|
Communication
and searchable systems |
DOI, DCI,
CSCD, WDS/ISC, GEOSS, China GEOSS |
3 Case Study Data Development
3.1 Geographical Location
Ji’an is a
county-level city under the jurisdiction of Jilin Province, situated in the
southeastern part of the province and the southern area of Tonghua
City. The city extends from 125°34'33'' to 126°32'48'' in longitude and from
40°52'7'' to 41°35'18'' in latitude, encompassing a total administrative area
of approximately 3348.54 km2. It comprises 11 towns and 4
subdistricts. Geologically, Ji’an lies on the
southwestern foothills of the Changbai Mountains, with the Laoling Mountain
range traversing the territory from northeast to southwest. The study area,
Huadian Town, is located on the western slopes of the Laoling Mountains in
northwestern Ji’an (Figure 1). Huadian Town covers an area of 155.49 km2
and, as of 2024, has a registered population of 9,414 and a permanent resident
population of 6,174, distributed across one community and eight administrative
villages.
Figure 1
Geographical location and altitude classification map of case area
3.2
Ecological Environment Data
3.2.1
Topography and Landform
The optimal growth
of forest-grown Panax ginseng requires well-drained soils and specific
slope conditions, generally favoring gradients between 15° to 25°[13].
Situated at the southern foothills of the Changbai Mountains, Ji’an is
characterized by a mountainous landscape dominated by the Laoling Mountain
range, with an overall topographical gradient descending from northeast to
southwest. Based on SRTM 30m DEM data, slope reclassification and raster-based
statistical analysis reveal that approximately 42.24% of the land area in Ji’an
falls within the 15°–25° slope range. Huadian Town, a key cultivation area for
forest-grown Panax ginseng located in northwestern Ji’an, features
elevations ranging from 325 m to 944 m (Figure 1). The town is primarily
composed of low mountains and gently undulating hills, with 47.61% of the
area—nearly half—with the optimal slope range of 15°–25°
(Figure 2). The hypsography is characterized by higher elevations in the north
and south and lower elevations in the central
region. The widespread distribution of suitable slopes provides natural
drainage and geomorphological protection, creating favorable conditions for the
cultivation of forest-grown Panax ginseng.
Figure 2
Slope classification map of the case area
3.2.2 Vegetation Indices and Land Use
Patterns
Using Sentinel-2
satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of 10 m, this study calculated the
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) (Figure 3) and generated
land-use/land-cover (LULC) map (Figure 4) for Ji’an City and Huadian Town. The
NDVI results indicate dense vegetation cover across the region, reflecting a
superior ecological baseline. Land-use types in the study area include
forestland, cropland, grassland, water bodies, and built-up land. Forestland is
the dominant land-use type in both Ji’an and Huadian Town, accounting for
approximately 81.46% and 83.17% of their total areas, respectively. These
extensive forest resources provide primary ecological niches and physical
environments for wild-simulated cultivation of forest-grown Panax ginseng,
serving as the fundamental resource endowment for the development of the
regional ginseng industry.
Figure 3
NDVI analysis diagram of the case area
Figure 4
Current land use and land cover map of the case area
3.2.3
Vegetation Conditions
Forest-grown Panax
ginseng is a semi-shade-tolerant species that requires natural shading
throughout its growth cycle. It is sensitive to direct sunlight and prefers
diffuse light, making it well suited to broadleaf and coniferous-broadleaf
mixed forests with good canopy cover[14].
In Ji’an, forest composition is dominated by Mongolian oak (Quercus mongolica), linden (Tilia spp.), and Korean pine
(Pinus koraiensis)[15].
The forest
exhibits a distinct vertical stratification. The canopy layer, dominated by oak
and linden, has a crown closure ranging from 0.6 to 0.8 and provides primary
shading. The shrub layer, mainly composed of hazel (Corylus spp.) and
bush clover (Lespedeza spp.), forms a secondary shading layer. The
herbaceous layer, consisting of ferns and mountain mugwort (Artemisia
spp.), constitutes a tertiary protective layer[16].
This
well-developed vertical structure not only provides natural shading but also
contributes large amount of plant litter each year. The decomposition of this
litter continuously enriches soil organic matter, creating an ideal habitat for
ginseng growth.
3.2.4
Climatic Conditions
Ji’an
has a temperate continental climate characterized by synchronized heat and
precipitation and four distinct seasons. The Laoling Mountain range traverses
the region, forming a natural barrier that moderates the climate on its
southern slopes. This results in semi-maritime characteristics, including high
humidity, abundant rainfall, and relatively low wind speeds, earning the region
the nickname “Little Jiangnan of Jilin.”
Consequently,
Ji’an exhibits four climatic extremes within the province: the highest annual
average precipitation (800–1000 mm), the highest annual accumulated temperature
(3,650℃), the longest frost-free period (approximately 150 days), and the
lowest annual average wind speed (1.6 m/s). In Huadian Town, the mean annual
temperature is 6.2℃ and the average annual precipitation is approximately 880
mm. This mild and humid environment, characterized by synchronized water and
heat conditions and low climatic stress, provides an optimal foundation for the
high-quality growth of forest-grown Panax ginseng.
Figure 5
Statistical analysis of climatic characteristics in the case area
3.2.5
Soil Environmental Data
The soil types in
Ji’an transition from Phaeozems (black soil) to Luvisols
(dark brown forest soil) along an altitudinal gradient ranging from 325m to
944m. These soils are typically weakly acidic and are rich in organic matter
and available nutrients.
For this study,
soil sampling and analysis were conducted within the Huadian Town case area.
Three topsoil sampling points were established at a depth of 0-20 cm.
Additionally, a 1 m-deep soil profile was excavated, and stratified samples
were collected at 20 cm intervals (Figure 6a). During sampling, the profile
surfaces were meticulously leveled, cleared of superficial impurities, and
documented photographically.
The soil samples
were analyzed for fertility and environmental quality at the Physical and
Chemical Analysis Center of the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural
Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences. The assessment metrics
included soil fertility indicators: total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP),
total potassium (TK), organic carbon (TOC), and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio
(C/N), as well as environmental safety indicators, including pH and
concentrations of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), nickel
(Ni), zinc (Zn), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As).
Figure 6
Distribution of soil and water sampling points in the case area
The analytical
results for nutrient indicators in surface soil samples are summarized in Table
2. Soil pH values ranged from 5.33 to 5.38 (mean: 5.36), indicating weakly
acidity consistent with the growth requirements of Panax ginseng. TN
content ranged from 1.39 to 3.11 g/kg (mean:
2.64 g/kg). TOC concentrations were measured between 16.79 and 42.32 g/kg (mean:
32.78 g/kg); utilizing the standard conversion factor for organic carbon to
organic matter, the resulting organic matter content ranged from 28.96 to 72.93
g/kg.
The C/N ratio
fluctuated between 12.1 and 12.8 (mean: 12.4). Regarding
macro-nutrients, TK concentrations ranged from 21.92 to 24.68 g/kg (mean: 23.40
g/kg), while TP ranged from 382 to 521 mg/kg (mean: 467 mg/kg). Both soil pH
and organic matter content meet the requirements specified in the national standard
for forest-grown Panax ginseng: Product of geographical indication - Jilinchangbaishan ginseng (GB/T 19506-2009)[17].
Table 2
Statistical table of detection results of surface soil samples in the case area
|
Sample
number |
Elevation (m) |
pH |
Total
nitrogen (g/kg) |
Organic
carbon (g/kg) |
Carbon-to-nitrogen
ratio |
Total
potassium (g/kg) |
Total
phosphorus (mg/kg) |
|
Henglu |
593.27 |
5.33 |
3.31 |
42.32 |
12.8 |
24.68 |
499 |
|
Donggou |
398.10 |
5.38 |
3.21 |
39.22 |
12.2 |
23.60 |
521 |
|
Baodian |
409.20 |
5.38 |
1.39 |
16.79 |
12.1 |
21.92 |
382 |
|
Maximum |
593.27 |
5.38 |
3.31 |
42.32 |
12.8 |
24.68 |
521 |
|
Minimum |
398.10 |
5.33 |
1.39 |
16.79 |
12.1 |
21.92 |
382 |
|
mean |
466.86 |
5.36 |
2.64 |
32.78 |
12.4 |
23.40 |
467 |
|
GB/T19506-2009 Limits |
|
5.5-6.5 |
— |
1.74 |
— |
— |
— |
Note: “—”
indicates that no limit is specified in the standard
The analytical
results for heavy metal concentrations in surface soil samples are detailed in
Table 3. Concentration ranges for Cd, Cr, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Zn were 0.09–0.18
mg/kg, 88.24–94.24 mg/kg, 16.37–23.23 mg/kg, 13.90–19.53
mg/kg, 26.01–33.48 mg/kg, and 74.90–77.20
mg/kg, respectively. Corresponding mean values were 0.14 mg/kg, 91.25 mg/kg,
19.88 mg/kg, 16.93 mg/kg, 28.96 mg/kg, and 76.20 mg/kg. Trace elements Hg and
As were detected in ranges of 0.04 to 0.06 μg/kg (mean: 0.05 μg/kg) and 6.14 to
9.15 μg/kg (mean: 7.29 μg/kg). According to the Soil environment quality
risk control standard for soil contamination of agriculture land (GB
15618—2018)[18],
all measured values are well below the specified risk screening thresholds.
These results indicate that no soil contamination risk in the study area.
Table 3
Statistical table of heavy metal detection results of surface soil samples in
the case area
|
Samples number |
Elevation (m) |
Cd |
Cr |
Pb |
Cu |
Ni |
Zn |
Hg |
As |
|
|
(mg/kg) |
(μg/kg) |
|||||||||
|
Henglu |
593.27 |
0.16 |
88.24 |
23.23 |
19.53 |
26.01 |
77.20 |
0.06 |
9.51 |
|
|
Donggou |
398.10 |
0.18 |
91.28 |
20.03 |
13.90 |
27.38 |
74.90 |
0.05 |
6.21 |
|
|
Baodian |
409.20 |
0.09 |
94.24 |
16.37 |
17.36 |
33.48 |
76.50 |
0.04 |
6.14 |
|
|
Maximum |
593.27 |
0.18 |
94.24 |
23.23 |
19.53 |
33.48 |
77.20 |
0.06 |
9.51 |
|
|
|
(Continued) |
|||||||||
|
Samples number |
Elevation (m) |
Cd |
Cr |
Pb |
Cu |
Ni |
Zn |
Hg |
As |
|
|
(mg/kg) |
(μg/kg) |
|||||||||
|
Minimum |
398.10 |
0.09 |
88.24 |
16.37 |
13.90 |
26.01 |
74.90 |
0.04 |
6.14 |
|
|
mean |
466.86 |
0.14 |
91.25 |
19.88 |
16.93 |
28.96 |
76.20 |
0.05 |
7.29 |
|
|
Standard Limit (≤) |
— |
0.3 |
150 |
90 |
50 |
70 |
200 |
1 800 |
40 000 |
|
The analytical
results for deeper soil layers are presented in Table 4. Soil pH exhibited
minor fluctuations with depth, maintaining a stable weakly acidic profile and
demonstrating high vertical stability in soil acidity. Both TN and TOC
concentrations peaked in the surface layer (0–20
cm), decreased significantly at 40 cm, and remained relatively stable in deeper
layers. Notably, a slight increase in TOC was observed at 80–100
cm depth. TK content increased progressively with depth, while TP was highest in
the surface layer and decreased markedly below it before stabilizing.
Overall, soil
nutrients in the study area exhibit a pattern of surface accumulation and low
vertical heterogeneity, indicating relatively uniform distribution throughout
the profile. This vertical consistency facilitates downward root extension and
supports sustained nutrient uptake by ginseng.
Table 4 Statistics
of nutrient content in soil profile in the case area
|
Depth (cm) |
pH |
N (g/kg) |
C (g/kg) |
C/N ratio |
K (g/kg) |
P (mg/kg) |
|
20 |
5.46 |
1.10 |
8.40 |
7.49 |
24.28 |
377 |
|
40 |
5.35 |
0.50 |
3.20 |
6.02 |
31.05 |
257 |
|
60 |
5.38 |
0.50 |
3.20 |
6.24 |
32.38 |
280 |
|
80 |
5.41 |
0.60 |
3.90 |
6.58 |
32.46 |
278 |
|
100 |
5.45 |
0.60 |
7.20 |
11.2 |
33.09 |
285 |
The concentrations
of heavy metals—Hg, As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn—across various soil depths
remained well below national safety limits, indicating minimal environmental
risk (Table 5). The concentrations of Hg, As, and Cd exhibited negligible
fluctuations across the soil profile, demonstrating a highly uniform
distribution. In contrast, the concentrations of Ni, Zn, Cr, Pb, and Cu showed
a gradual increase with depth. Despite these variations, the absolute values of
all heavy metal concentrations remained at low levels, consistently falling
significantly below the risk screening thresholds defined in the Soil
environment quality risk control standard for soil contamination of agriculture
land (GB 15618—2018)[18].
Table 5
Statistical table of heavy metal content in soil profile in the case area
|
Testing items |
Standard limit (≤). |
20 cm |
40 cm |
60 cm |
80 cm |
100 cm |
|
Hg(μg/kg) |
1 800 |
0.04 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
|
As(μg/kg) |
40 000 |
5.27 |
4.18 |
4.53 |
4.39 |
3.89 |
|
Cd(mg/kg) |
0.3 |
0.07 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.07 |
|
Pb(mg/kg) |
90 |
20.95 |
21.65 |
25.13 |
27.69 |
24.99 |
|
Cr(mg/kg) |
150 |
91.05 |
87.86 |
83.54 |
101.24 |
101.66 |
|
Cu(mg/kg) |
50 |
19.70 |
23.23 |
21.81 |
24.46 |
24.63 |
|
Ni(mg/kg) |
70 |
32.23 |
39.79 |
42.78 |
47.18 |
46.21 |
|
Zn(mg/kg) |
250 |
74.91 |
81.51 |
90.70 |
93.18 |
93.44 |
3.2.6
Water Quality Data
Ji’an is rich in
water resources, with a total volume of 1.765 billion m3, including
870 million m3 of surface water resources. The river system in
Huadian Town belongs to the Hun River Basin, with a catchment area of 156.4 km2.
To correspond with the spatial distribution of the soil sampling points, three
surface water sampling sites were established in the study area (Figure 6b).
Samples were analyzed by the Physical and Chemical Analysis Center of the
Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research and Centre
Testing International (Henan) Co., Ltd.
The analytical
parameters included eight environmental indicators: pH, suspended solids,
biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), anionic
surfactants, chloride, sulfide, and total salt. Additionally, eight heavy metal
indicators were assessed: Cd, Cr, Zn, Pb, Cu, Ni, As, and Hg.
The analytical
results for surface water samples are summarized in Table 6. The pH values
fluctuated within an extremely narrow range of 7.53 to 7.56, indicating high
stability in alkalinity. Suspended solids ranged from 1 to 2 mg/L (mean: 1.67
mg/L), while BOD ranged from 2.4 to 2.6 mg/L (mean: 2.47 mg/L). COD was
recorded at a constant 6 mg/L. Notably, anionic surfactants and sulfides were
not detected (below the analytical method’s detection limits).
Chloride
concentrations ranged from 2.20 to 2.91 mg/L (mean: 2.63 mg/L), and the total
salt ranged from 60 to 63 mg/L (mean: 61.33 mg/L), both significantly below
standard thresholds. Overall, all tested indicators were found to be well below
the maximum allowable limits established in the Standard for irrigation
water quality (GB 5084-2021)[19],
and Environmental quality standards for surface water (GB 3838—2002)[20],
demonstrating excellent water quality in the study area.
Table 6
Statistical table of water sample test results in the case area
|
Sample number |
Elevation (m) |
pH |
Suspended solids |
BOD (mg/L) |
COD |
Anionic synthetic |
Chloride |
Sulfide |
Total salt (mg/L) |
|
Henglu |
571.8 |
7.53 |
2 |
2.4 |
6 |
ND |
2.77 |
ND |
61 |
|
Donggou |
389.4 |
7.56 |
1 |
2.4 |
6 |
ND |
2.20 |
ND |
60 |
|
Baodian |
360.2 |
7.53 |
2 |
2.6 |
6 |
ND |
2.91 |
ND |
63 |
|
Maximum |
571.8 |
7.56 |
2 |
2.6 |
6 |
ND |
2.91 |
ND |
63 |
|
Minimum |
360.2 |
7.53 |
1 |
2.4 |
6 |
ND |
2.20 |
ND |
60 |
|
mean |
440.47 |
7.54 |
1.67 |
2.47 |
6 |
ND |
2.63 |
ND |
61.33 |
|
GB5084-2021 |
— |
5.5-8.5 |
100 |
100 |
200 |
8 |
350 |
1 |
1000 |
Note:
“—”
indicates that no limit is specified in the standard.
“ND” indicates not detected.
3.3 Product Characteristics
The primary
cultivars of forest-grown Panax ginseng in Ji’an
are “Changbo” and “Ermaya,” which are characterized
by vigorous growth and robust main roots, effectively balancing biomass yield
with morphological aesthetics. Mature specimens exhibit a slender, curved
rhizome (lu-tou), commonly known as the
“swan-neck rhizome” (yan-bo-lu), with sparse
stem scars (lu-wan). The main root is
typically spindle-shaped, featuring mature epidermal texture with deep and
continuous “iron-line” transverse rings. Fibrous roots are elongated and
resilient, marked by prominent “pearl spots” (nodules) and occasional scars (Figure
7). These morphological characteristics meet the “Five Forms and Six Bodies”
criteria specified in the national standard Identification and grade quality
standards of wild ginseng (GB/T 18765-2015)[3].
Figure 7
Growth habitat and growth process of forest-grown ginseng
In this study, the
chemical composition and heavy metal concentrations of forest-grown Panax
ginseng from Ji’an were evaluated. Samples were analyzed by Ji’an
Traceability Inspection, Testing, and Certification Co., Ltd. Measured
parameters included moisture, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, total
ginsenosides, ginsenoside Rb1, and ginsenosides Re+Rg1.
Heavy metals analyzed included As, Pb, Cu, Cd, and Hg. The analytical results
are summarized in Tables 8 and 9.
Moisture content
ranged from 6.67% to 11.70% (mean: 9.19%), total ash from 3.90% to 4.26% (mean:
4.08%), acid-insoluble ash at 0.63%, total ginsenosides from 6.11% to 6.33%
(mean: 6.22%), ginsenoside Rb1 from 0.68% to 2.90% (mean: 1.79%),
and ginsenosides Re+Rg1 from 0.93% to 3.10% (mean: 2.05%). All
chemical constituents met the requirements stipulated in the national standard Identification
and grade quality standards of wild ginseng[3].
Heavy metals As and Hg were not detected. Pb, Cu, and Cd concentrations were
0.37 mg/kg, 3.30 mg/kg, and 0.07 mg/kg, respectively, all well below the limits
defined in the Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China[1].
Table 8
Statistical table of the test results of forest-grown Panax ginseng components
in the case area
|
Sample number |
Moisture (%) |
Total Ash (%) |
Acid Insoluble Ash (%) |
Total ginseng saponins (%) |
Rb1 (%) |
Re+Rg1 (%) |
|
1 |
11.7 |
3.90 |
0.63 |
6.33 |
0.68 |
0.93 |
|
2 |
6.67 |
4.26 |
0.63 |
6.11 |
2.90 |
3.10 |
|
mean |
9.19 |
4.08 |
0.63 |
6.22 |
1.79 |
2.05 |
|
Limits |
8.00 |
5.00 |
1.00 |
4.40 |
0.40 |
0.60 |
Table 9
Statistical results of heavy metal content of forest-grown Panax ginseng in the
case area
|
Sample number |
As (mg/kg) |
Pb (mg/kg) |
Cu (mg/kg) |
Cd (mg/kg) |
Hg (mg/kg) |
|
1 |
ND |
0.37 |
3.30 |
0.07 |
ND |
|
Limit (≤) |
2.00 |
0.50 |
20.00 |
0.50 |
0.10 |
Note: “ND” indicates not detected.
4
Management and Operation of Forest-Grown Panax ginseng
4.1
Socio-Economic Status
According to the Jilin
Statistical Yearbook[21],
Ji’an had a total population of 205,300 in 2022,
including 119,900 rural residents. From 2019 to 2023, its Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) increased from RMB 5.5 billion to RMB 7.93 billion, representing
an average annual growth rate of 8.7% and reflecting a fluctuating yet upward
trajectory. The primary industry accounted for approximately 12% of GDP.
The ginseng
industry serves as a traditional competitive advantage and a pillar industry
for Ji’an. In 2022, forest-grown Panax ginseng contributed 62.5% of the
added value of the primary industry, with approximately 60% of farmers’ income
linked to ginseng production[22].
Leveraging its geographical advantage as a core production area of Changbai Mountain ginseng, Ji’an
has developed an integrated model combing ginseng production, tourism and
ecological conservation. The city has been designated as the “Hometown of
Chinese Ginseng” and a “National Non-timber Forest Economy Demonstration Base,”
effectively stimulating industrial and agricultural production while
significantly boosting rural incomes and providing vital support for local
economic growth.
In Huadian Town,
the registered population in 2024 was 9,414, with 6,174 permanent residents;
In 2021, total ginseng cultivation area reached 4,770 mu (approx. 318
hectares), yielding an output value of RMB 28.78 million. By 2024, the
cultivation area specifically dedicated to forest-grown Panax ginseng
reached 2,537 mu, reflecting a substantial industrial scale.
Figure 8
Statistical table of economic development in Ji’an City
4.2
Cultivation History and Traditions of Forest-Grown Panax ginseng
Ginseng serves as
the core industrial identity of Ji’an. Ji’an has a
history of nearly 400 years of ginseng cultivation and is widely known as the
“Hometown of Chinese Ginseng.” In the 1990s, to address ecological damage
caused by traditional deforestation-based cultivation, Ji’an pioneered
under-forest seed sowing techniques that simulate natural growth conditions of
wild ginseng. Following the nationwide ban on deforestation for ginseng
cultivation in 2013, Ji’an actively responded by fully promoting under-forest
sowing techniques. During this transition, Huadian Town emerged as a key pilot
area due to its favorable forest conditions.
Building upon
these achievements in ecological transformation, the Ji’an Modern Agricultural
Industrial Park was recognized in 2017 as one of China’s first national-level
modern agricultural industrial parks and remains the only one dedicated
specifically to ginseng, thereby laying a solid foundation for industrial
intensification. In 2018, Ji’an developed a high-standard development plan for
the ginseng industrial park, establishing an industrial layout characterized by
“one core, one center, and seven bases”[22].
By 2022, five major technological production demonstration bases had been
completed. This was followed by the launch of operations at the National
Inspection and Testing Center for Ginseng and Local Chinese Medicinal Materials
in 2023, and the establishment in 2024 of the inaugural Ginseng Market Legal
Service Center, aimed at combating counterfeit products and standardizing trade
practices.
Currently, Huadian
Town has completed a fundamental transformation in its ginseng cultivation
model, shifting from traditional forest-land utilization to wild-simulated
under-forest systems, and from extensive to standardized management. Building
on these advancements, the locality has prioritized the development of a
comprehensive industrial chain and successfully explored an innovative
“Ecology+” development model. This approach has paved a sustainable pathway for
green development characterized by overall improvements in quality, efficiency,
and industrial structure.
4.3
Cultivation and Processing Management of Forest-Grown Panax ginseng
4.3.1
Site Selection and Preparation
Forest-grown Panax
ginseng has highly specific environmental requirements for optimal growth.
Cultivation sites should be located within broadleaf mixed forests with a
canopy closure of 0.6 to 0.8, ensuring protection from direct solar radiation.
Topographically, the slope gradient of 10°–25° are preferred to facilitate
natural drainage and prevent waterlogging[23].
The forest soil should be loose in texture, rich in humus, and possess good
water retention and aeration capacity. Suitable soil types include black sandy
humus soil, sandy loam, and standard loam[13].
To ensure seedling
survival, appropriate site preparation and clearing are required prior to
planting. This involves selectively thinning overly dense trees, removing
weeds, and underbrush below 1 m in height, and clearing excessive forest
litter. However, where the litter layer is thin, it should be retained as a
natural mulch to decompose and supply nutrients for ginseng growth[24].
4.3.2
Seed Preparation and Field Management
Panax ginseng
seeds encompass several cultivated varieties, notably Ermaya,
Changbo, and Yuanbang
Yuanlu, each with distinct morphological and biochemical characteristics.
Among these, the Ermaya cultivar is highly favored due to its elongated
rhizome, tapered shoulder, prominent main root, and distinct lateral roots. It
is also characterized by higher concentrations of active saponins, such as
ginsenosides Rb1 and Re[25].
Accordingly, Ermaya is predominantly cultivated in forest stands
dominated by Mongolian oak (Quercus mongolica),
linden (Tilia spp.), and hazel (Corylus spp.)[26].
Prior to planting, seeds undergo artificial stratification to stimulate
germination. Once the seed coat softens and turns deep red, the fruits are
harvested, depulped to remove the exocarp and
mesocarp, and cleaned before sowing. Autumn sowing is commonly adopted, with
seeds dibbled into furrows and covered with soil, after which they are left to
grow naturally with minimal human intervention.
Management of
forest-grown Panax ginseng in Ji’an strictly adheres to the “Five-No
Principle”[26]:
no transplanting, no soil disturbance, no artificial shading structures, no
fertilization, and no weeding, representing a wild-simulated, low-intervention
management approach. Specific protective measures include installing wire mesh
fencing around cultivation sites to prevent disturbance by humans and livestock[27].
The application of chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides is strictly
prohibited throughout the growth cycle. For the first three years after
emergence, weeding is generally unnecessary; thereafter, only weeds taller than
the ginseng plants are removed. For plants older than five years, periodic
clearing of encroaching branches and shrubs is required to maintain suitable
light conditions[28].
Furthermore, for plants older than eight years,
floral thinning and bud removal are practiced to reduce reproductive energy
expenditure and promote root development.
4.3.3
Harvesting and Processing
The optimal
harvest period for forest-grown Panax ginseng is after approximately 15
years of growth, specifically during September–October when the stems and
leaves begin to senesce. After harvesting, farmers transport fresh
roots—retaining adhering soil—to specialized cooperatives or local processing
facilities for cleaning and primary treatment. This process integrates
traditional methods with modern standards: soil is gently removed using
purified running water, damaged sections are meticulously trimmed, and
preliminary sorting is conducted based on morphology, size, and integrity.
Through this standardized processing, cooperatives ensure high levels of
cleanliness and consistency in grading, establishing a solid quality foundation
for subsequent desiccation, dehydration, and intensive processing.
As of 2024, Ji’an had more than 1,800 ginseng-related business entities
covering the entire industrial chain, from cultivation and processing to
marketing. This includes 126 processing enterprises, among which are one
national-level key leading enterprise in agricultural industrialization, four
provincial-level leading enterprises, and 16 enterprises above designated size.
The city possesses an annual processing capacity of 9,000 tons, with an actual
annual throughput of approximately 6,000 tons. Notably, seven intensive
processing enterprises each process over 600 tons annually, representing about
10% of the total volume. Ji’an has achieved full
utilization of the ginseng plant—including roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and
fruits. Its range of deep-processed products ranks among the most diverse in
China, with over 600 products developed across four major categories: food,
pharmaceuticals, health supplements, and cosmetics[29-30].
4.4
Sustainable Development of the Forest-Grown Panax ginseng Industry
4.4.1
Policy Support
Governmental
policy support has played a critical role in promoting the development of the
ginseng industry in Ji’an. By leveraging leading enterprises, the city has
facilitated vertical integration across the industrial chain, connecting
primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors. This development model is anchored in
traditional cultivation, driven by advanced planting technologies, and
supported by intensive product processing, and complemented by agritourism,
ultimately promoting sustainable ecological agriculture[30].
Ji’an
has formulated high-standard development plans for its ginseng industrial
parks, defining a spatial layout of “one core, one center, and seven bases” and
implementing a “company + production base” operational model to maximize
land-use efficiency and resource integration[31].
By prioritizing full-chain development and high-end industrialization, the city
is strategically positioning itself to build a 100-billion-yuan ginseng
industrial cluster[32-33].
In 2024, the ginseng industry contributed approximately 80% to local farmers’
income, while the total output value of the entire ginseng industrial chain
reached RMB 16 billion, indicating a rapid transition toward high-quality
development.
Huadian Town has
actively implemented municipal-level policies by establishing standardized
cultivation bases, strengthening benefit-sharing mechanisms between
entrepreneurial leaders and demonstration bases, promoting
industry-university-research collaborations, and exploring “Ecology+”
industrial integration. These specific measures have effectively translated
municipal strategic blueprint into tangible local practices.
4.4.2
Technological Empowerment
Ji’an hosts the
only national-level modern agricultural industrial park in China dedicated to
ginseng as its leading industry. In recent years, the city has fostered
collaborative innovation through industry-university-research partnerships. By
leveraging platforms such as the Jilin Ginseng Science and Technology Backyard
(STB) cluster—the first national-level STB in China focused on ginseng
processing—and through collaboration with research institutions including Jilin
Agricultural University, the city has focused on frontier technologies
including rare saponin transformation and probiotic fermentation. This
dual-driven model of “expert think tanks + technology incubation” has
accelerated the transition of the forest-grown Panax ginseng industry
from traditional cultivation to high-value-added intensive processing.
To further ensure
product quality, the “One Ginseng, One Code” traceability platform was
officially launched in June 2024. By utilizing “QR code + blockchain”
technologies, the platform establishes a three-tier traceability system that
enables stakeholders to verify key information such as geographical origin,
cultivation age, and ginsenoside content, thereby achieving full lifecycle
quality control. The China-Qinghe (Aoyang) Wild Ginseng International Trading
Center, located in Qinghe Town, serves as the primary trading hub for
forest-grown Panax ginseng. It has fully implemented this system,
ensuring stringent quality supervision throughout the transaction process.
4.4.3
Cultural and Tourism Integration
Ji’an
has strategically centered its industrial evolution on ginseng culture,
fostering deep integration between the forest-grown Panax ginseng
industry and cultural tourism. The development of the
“Ji’an-Qinghe Wild Ginseng Town” serves as a primary platform for this synergy,
hosting major events such as the “Chinese Farmers’ Harvest Festival &
Ji’an-Qinghe Wild Ginseng Festival.” These festivals feature innovative
activities including “Ginseng King” competitions, ginseng-themed banquets, and
the release of digital collectibles. Furthermore, the development of the Jilin Xianshen Valley Tourism and Wellness Resort has introduced
specialized programs such as ginseng-based medicinal cuisine and forest therapy
(Shinrin-yoku).
Huadian Town has
actively explored the “Ecology+” development pathway by leveraging its
forest-grown Panax ginseng bases to develop forest tourism and
experiential harvesting activities. By inviting tourists to participate in the
full cultivation and harvesting cycle, the town has effectively advanced the
integrated development of the ginseng and tourism sectors.
4.4.4
Terrestrial Habitat Monitoring System for Forest-Grown Panax ginseng
To enhance the
real-time monitoring of forest-grown Panax ginseng growth, a terrestrial
habitat observation station has been established in Xianshen
Valley, Ji’an. The monitoring suite integrates a
comprehensive array of sensors to measure key environmental parameters,
including air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, atmospheric pressure,
precipitation, and light intensity. Additionally, the system tracks ecological
indicators such as negative oxygen ion concentration, alongside edaphic
parameters including soil moisture and electrical conductivity. This integrated
monitoring framework enables continuous, real-time observation of both the
physiological growth status of forest-grown Panax ginseng and
surrounding environmental conditions.
Figure 9 GIES ground
station
5
Conclusion
Huadian Town in
Ji’an City possesses highly suitable and abundant habitat conditions for
forest-grown Panax ginseng, enabling the production of high-quality specimens.
Ji’an forest-grown Panax ginseng is characterized by a high
concentration of total ginsenosides and is particularly rich in bioactive
compounds such as ginsenoside Rb1 and the Re+Rg1 complex,
conferring significant medicinal value. To further consolidate the leading
position of the Ji’an forest-grown Panax ginseng in the national market,
the following strategic recommendations are proposed: (1) Standardization and
Quality Control: Efforts should be continue to refine
and advance the standardized production of forest-grown Panax ginseng
and its derivatives. This includes enhancing scientific research, manufacturing
technologies, and quality management systems to ensure safety and consistency.
(2) Innovation and R&D Systems: It is essential to further strengthen the
industrial innovation and R&D framework. Priority should be given to
supporting specialized research projects and providing incentives for the
development of new products, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced processing
techniques. (3) Brand Building and Market Positioning: Strengthening the brand
identity of Ji’an forest-grown Panax ginseng is essential. This entails
establishing a robust brand standard system and innovating marketing models to
enhance market competitiveness and consumer trust, thereby leveraging brand
value to drive overall industrial upgrading. (4) Ecological Integration: The
“Ecology+” development trajectory in Huadian Town should be continuously
advanced. Emphasis should be placed on the coordinated development of
ecological conservation and industrial expansion, ensuring that ginseng
cultivation remains aligned with environmental protection and long-term
sustainability goals.
Author
Contributions
Zhu, W. B. was
responsible for the overall study design and supervision of the manuscript.
Zhao, Z. C. was responsible for manuscript writing and figure preparation. Zhu,
W. B., Zhao, Z. C., Yao, Y., Liu, H. B., Wang, F., and Xiang, L. F.
participated in field investigation and sample collection. Yao, Y. and Liu, H.
B. conducted data curation. Wang, F. and Xiang, L. F. provided industry
standards and data on the ginseng cultivation area.
Acknowledgments
The authors
express their sincere gratitude to the Ji’an Municipal Administration for
Market Regulation and Ji’an Tianli Ecological Agriculture Co., Ltd. for their
invaluable support during field sampling and investigation. Special thanks are
extended to local government authorities at all levels in Ji’an
and to all supporting staff for their coordination. The authors also
gratefully acknowledge Professor Wang, Z. B. from the Institute of Geographic
Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, for his
expert guidance on project initiation and research design.
Conflict
of Interest
The authors
declare no conflicts of interest.
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