West Virginia's ginseng digging season begins, runs through November

West Virginia's ginseng digging season has begun.

The season started Sunday and continues through Nov. 30.

The herb grows wild in all 55 counties in West Virginia, and the state Department of Commerce says its roots sold last year for an average of $508 per pound.

Plants are ready to harvest when their berries turn red. After a plant's roots are removed, state law requires that its seeds and berries be replanted in the spot where it was harvested.

Plants must be at least five years old to be harvested. Plants with three or more prongs are old enough to be harvested. All roots must be sold to a registered dealer by March 31.