Andrew Mariani
Andy Mariani, born in San Jose, is a multigenerational orchardist and master stone fruit grower whose work has helped preserve and expand heirloom fruit in California and the United States. At Andy’s Orchard, on land his immigrant family has farmed since 1957, he cultivates and propagates more than 300 varieties—many rare or nearly lost—and harvests only at full ripeness, setting a standard for flavor. Named Cherry Man of the Year (2009), Mariani is the stone fruit expert for the California Rare Fruit Growers and has served on the California Cherry Advisory Board’s research committee, working with growers and university partners to advance cultivation practices. He advises orchards statewide and mentors new growers in the craft of orcharding and stone fruit cultivation. Andy is a contributing writer to the Oxford Encyclopedia of American Food and Drink in America, authored a book on fruit varieties, has written numerous articles and lectures on fruit and fruit culture. He carries forward a legacy of land, trees, expertise and contributions that continue to shape California orchards.
