Soil Health & Nutrient-Dense CherriesRegenerative practices — cover cropping, compost, and natural amendments — are rebuilding our soil biology and producing cherries richer in antioxidants.
Our Approach to Regenerative Farming
We prioritize practices that build living soil:
Cover cropping — maintains living roots and protects soil year-round.
Natural amendments — compost and organic materials to increase organic matter and feed soil microbes.
Reduced reliance on synthetics, supporting microbial diversity and nutrient cycling.
From the Science:
Farming practices like cover cropping and using compost improve soil structure and support soil microbial communities.
Healthy soils with active biology support the potential for more nutrient-rich food.
Evidence from Our Soil
Third-Party Tested Results
Soil Health Test (June 2026):
Soil Respiration: 321.6 ppm CO2-C — a direct measure of microbial and root activity.
Since our initial testing, soil respiration has increased approximately 577%. This substantial rise signals markedly improved soil biological activity — exactly what supports better nutrient cycling and plant health.
Nutrient Density in Our Cherries
Third-Party Tested Results
Cherrywood Orchard cherries were approximately 69% higher in total antioxidants than the conventional benchmark in this sampling.
Additional Highlights:
Anthocyanins: ~1.7× higher in Cherrywood Orchard cherries.
Considerably more key red–purple pigments linked to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Total phenolics: ~70% higher in Cherrywood Orchard cherries
Indicates a richer overall antioxidant profile and is consistent with a more intensely pigmented fruit.
These results indicate that, in this sampling, our regenerative practices are associated with cherries exhibiting a richer phenolic and antioxidant profile. Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress and are linked to various health benefits. Outcomes depend on many factors, and we continue testing to track progress.
Why This Matters
Soil → Fruit Connection: Improved microbial activity (evidenced by respiration) helps plants access and utilize nutrients, supporting phytochemical production.
Broader Context: Our data is consistent with research on regenerative systems showing potential for higher beneficial compounds (e.g., antioxidants.)
We share this transparently: This is one round of testing on specific Skeena cherries. We’re committed to ongoing soil and fruit analysis.
Regenerative Verified Certificate
Cherrywood Orchard has maintained Regenerative Verified status since May 2025.
View our 2026 certificate below.
Cherrywood Orchard achieved a soil health score of 34.6. The score can range anywhere from 0 to 50, but most soils do not score higher than 30. In general, the higher the score the better.