Harvesting medicinal plants from the forest has deep cultural roots in Appalachia. Today, the practice of forest farming native plants such as ramps, goldenseal, black cohosh, and ginseng continues this botanical legacy. By intentionally cultivating these prized species in designated areas, harvesting pressure on wild plant populations is reduced, and landowners create an additional income stream for non-timber forest products that supply local, regional, and perhaps even international markets.

As a landowner in the Asheville area, an interest in medicinal herbs will lead you to the WNC Medicinal Herb Growers, an organized group of researchers, NC Extension educators, herb farmers, and hobby growers focused on the production of medicinal herbs in both the forest and field settings. This group provides workshops and events throughout the growing season to broaden the field of knowledge surrounding herb production, which continues to be a popular research area through NC State Extension. Another regional group, the Appalachian Beginning Forest Farmers Coalition (ABFFC) is an important resource for growers in the southeastern region. 

If you’re interested in diving into the world of forest botanicals this winter season, be sure to take advantage of early bird registration rates for ABFFC’s inaugural Gather to Grow Forest Farming Conference, to be held March 22-24, 2024. This conference is based in Roanoke, and features learning, networking, and strategic planning programs that will shape the future of forest farming of woodland crops such as botanicals, mushrooms, and decorative products in Appalachia. Early bird registration rates end January 15, 2024, so be sure to register early - for full details about the conference visit: https://www.appalachianforestfarmers.org/2024-conference