Introduction to regenerative agriculture
At Vejrø, we work daily with regenerative practices in the fields, in the vegetable gardens, and in our collaboration between nature, the kitchen, and guest experiences. Here you will find an introduction to what regenerative agriculture is, why it is important, and how you can use the principles yourself—whether you have a large garden, a balcony box, or simply want to understand the growing focus on soil health.
What is regenerative agriculture?
Regenerative agriculture stems from a fundamental understanding: that a robust food system can only exist if the soil itself is in balance. Unlike traditional farming methods, which often deplete the soil's resources over time, regenerative methods seek to strengthen the biological processes that naturally build fertility and ecosystem resilience.
The core is living soil. When you reduce tillage, ensure continuous soil cover, and work with high plant and species diversity, a complex interaction between roots, microorganisms, fungi, and insects is activated. This not only strengthens the soil's structure and nutrient content, but also increases its ability to bind carbon and retain water, two key factors in a rapidly changing climate.
The benefits are both ecological and culinary: healthier ecosystems, greater biodiversity, and ingredients with a quality and depth that reflect a soil in balance.
Five key principles behind regenerative farming
Minimal soil disturbance
Avoiding plowing preserves the soil structure, microorganisms, and fungal associations (mycorrhiza). This reduces erosion and creates rich, living topsoil.
Constant ground cover
Plant residues, compost, and living ground cover protect the soil from sun, wind, and drying out, while also feeding the life beneath the surface.
Great diversity in crops
Monoculture weakens both the soil and the ecosystem. Regenerative agriculture, on the other hand, uses crop rotation, perennial plants, and mixed beds to promote biodiversity.
Integration of animals
Where possible, grazing animals are used strategically to fertilize, disturb, and nourish the soil in a natural way.
The health of the earth as a compass
Why is regenerative agriculture important?
Regenerative agriculture is gaining ground because it addresses some of the biggest challenges of our time: climate change, depleted soils, and loss of biodiversity. When the soil is less disturbed and covered with plants year-round, it can store large amounts of carbon and thus actively contribute to reducing CO₂ in the atmosphere.
At the same time, soil fertility is naturally enhanced. Healthy soil retains water better, resists drought and heavy rain, and creates more stable growing conditions—even in a changing climate. Increased biodiversity, both above and below ground, makes the ecosystem more robust and self-regulating.
The result is not only stronger agriculture, but also higher-quality raw materials – with more nutrients and a deeper, more complex flavor.
How we work with regenerative agriculture on Vejrø
In our large greenhouse and kitchen gardens, we are constantly working to build up living, nutrient-rich soil using compost, fermented plant extracts, and minimal tillage.
The crops are grown according to nature's terms. Fields with mixed crops, living ground cover, and seasonal plants follow the rhythm of the earth rather than a fixed calendar. This results in raw materials that are clearly rooted in the local climate and soil.
Our agriculture and cuisine are closely linked. The ingredients are harvested just a few meters from Restaurant Jord, creating a dining experience that reflects the island's terroir and the regenerative work behind it.
At the same time, biodiversity is one of the cornerstones. From flower strips to wild meadows, Vejrø functions as a single ecosystem where insects, birds, and soil microorganisms thrive.
How to apply the principles at home
Even if you don't have 160 hectares of land at your disposal, you can still apply regenerative principles in your everyday life:
Leave the earth alone
Don't dig deep – instead, use a rake or work on top of the soil with compost.
Cover the ground all year round
Place leaves, straw, grass clippings, or compost in your beds.
Plant differently
Create small "polycultures": for example, herbs together with vegetables or flowers between the rows.
Use compost – even in small spaces
Even a small kitchen composting system makes a difference.
Make room for life
A box of flowers, some dead wood, or insect-friendly plants can do wonders for biodiversity.
Discover regenerative agriculture on Vejrø
On Vejrø, you get a rare insight into how a modern, regenerative island is run in practice. Our agricultural team works year-round to build soil health and grow produce that reflects the island's terroir and pure, Nordic nature.
Regenerative agriculture is a common thread throughout the experience – whether you come for the nature, the gastronomy, or the special tranquility that characterizes the island.
If you want to delve even deeper into the methods, you can book our "How to Farm" experience package, where you can follow the work up close and gain concrete knowledge that you can take home with you.