Micro forests increase species diversity

Micro forests use a planting technique pioneered by the Japanese biologist Dr Akira Miyawaki. The Miyawaki method uses young native trees planted closely together in order to quickly generate a small dense woodland. 

Ideally a micro forest should be about the size of a tennis court (roughly 200 to 250 square metres) as this gives it the best chance of creating a viable and sustainable ecosystem. However, if you have less space you can still plant a smaller micro forest to enjoy some benefits (see the Gallery for examples of a range of projects from large to very small). 

The full Miyawaki method also includes digging and replacing the soil to aerate the planting area, using soil supplements such as compost and mycorrhizal fungi and mulching the site with organic materials such as woodchips or straw. 

The dense planting means that the saplings grow quickly while competing for light and nutrients. Research shows that, once established, the micro forest will have a disproportionately positive impact on species diversity by providing high amounts of food and cover for insects, birds and small mammals. 

Good examples of species to use when planting a micro forest in the UK could include: 

• Alder (Alnus glutinosa), especially in wet conditions 
• Bird Cherry (Prunus padus)
• Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
• Crab apple (Malus sylvestris) 
• Field Maple (Acer campestre)
• Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus)
• Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
• Spindle (Euonymus europaeus)
• Wild Cherry (Prunus avium)

Micro forests can be used in lots of different areas

• By building developers to meet Biodiversity Net Gain obligations
• By local authorities to increase tree cover and access to nature
• By communities as part of urban regeneration projects
• By schools as an educational activity and ongoing resource
• By individuals who want to do fight back for nature 

Micro forests have a range of positive impacts on the environment and society. Micro forests...

• Increase species diversity by providing food and shelter for insects, birds and small mammals (a 2019 study in the Netherlands identified 595 different species of animals and plants across 17 tiny forests) 
• Capture carbon (250 kilograms of CO2 per year for a 200 square meter microforest)
• Absorb water - roughly 10,000 litres a year - helping with drainage and reducing risks of floods 
• Improve the health and well-being of people by giving them access to and the chance to interact with nature
• Provide a focal point for communities 

To find out more about how can plant a micro forest for your building development, community, school or in your garden email tim@microforests.co.uk