The effects of soil phosphorus level on seed emergence, seedling mortality, plant and root development of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) were evaluated in a newly planted commercial ginseng garden. Phosphorus levels were increased from 58 ppm to 100, 150 and 200 ppm with triplephosphate (0-45-0). Higher phosphate levels increased, seed emergence and reduced seedling mortality. Root length, diameter, fresh root weight and total leaflet length were not affected by phosphate levels.