Oregon State University Extension Service is exploring which Asian herbs and vegetables grow best in the Willamette Valley. Project partners are conducting field trials to determine the success of several high-demand herbs and vegetables that could offer high-value crops for farmers. A steady increase in Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations in the Portland metro area is contributing to the rising demand for medicinal herbs and Asian vegetables. Growers trialed tulsi (holy basil), ashwagandha, and red sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza) last season, and researchers are surveying buyers about the crops and attributes they prefer. This year, grower trials will include mizuna, Asian radish, and gai lan, as well as bitter melon, Korean radish, and Korean leeks.
Source: attra.ncat.org