Weber, H. Chr., Alexander, S. & Imhof, S. (1998):

The enrichment of ginseng garden soils with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

In: Weber, H. Chr., Zeuske, D. & Imhof, S.: Ginseng in Europe. Proceedings of the 1st European Ginseng Congress. Marburg, Germany, 6-11 December 1998.

Abstract:

Panax species are highly dependent on vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza (VAM). However, due to their mycorrhizal form (called Paris-type VAM), ginseng species decrease the vigor of their endophytes and jeopardize the fungal support for the long term. The introduction of additional VAM propagules is therefore necessary. This paper suggests the use of a VAM fungus wet nurse plant in ginseng gardens in order to maintain the mycorrhizal potential of the soil at a high level. The wet nurse plant should meet the following requirements: the plant roots should be highly susceptible for mycorrhizal fungi, the mycorrhiza should be the Arum-type VAM, and, the plant should be readily accessible and inexpensive to maintain.
Our investigations reveal, that for the mid-latitudes of the northern hemisphere, all requirements are met by Epilobium angustifolium (Onagraceae) and its introduction into ginseng gardens is recommended.