Micro forests

Micro forests use a planting method pioneered by Japanese biologist Dr Akira Miyawaki.

The Miyawaki method involves planting young native trees at between three and five per square meter to create a small, dense woodland.

A typical micro forest is about the size of a tennis court (around 250 square metres). This size is large enough to support a stable and thriving ecosystem. However, micro forests can be any shape or size and can be designed to fit the available space.

 The full Miyawaki method usually includes five key steps:

1. Soil improvement - The soil is improved by using a digger to excavate to the depth of around one metre to break up and aerate the soil. The soil is then replaced and add organic soil conditioner added. 
2. Dense native planting - A wide mix of native trees and shrubs are planted closely together. These are chosen to match the local environment and reflect the plants that would grow succesfull without human intervention. 
3. Mycorrhizal fungi - Natural fungal supplements are added at planting to help trees form strong underground networks.
4. Mulching - The soil is covered after planting to retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
5. Community involvement - Micro forests make excellent community planting days, helping build a stronger connection between people and nature.

Ideally, all five steps are used. However, in some situations this may not be possible, for example where machinery cannot access the site.

Because the trees are planted so closely together, they compete for light above ground and nutrients below ground. This encourages fast, natural growth.

Once established, a micro forest becomes a rich habitat for wildlife. Research shows it can increase biodiversity through the wide variety of food and shelter it provides for insects, birds, and small mammals.

 In the UK, I typically use over 30 native species, including:

• Canopy trees: Oak, Beech
• Hedgerow species: Hawthorn, Field Maple
• Flowering plants: Spindle, Guelder Rose
• Evergreens: Holly, Scots Pine

This mix creates a layered, resilient ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife.

 Micro forests are suitable for many different settings, including:

• Local authorities looking to increase tree cover and access to nature
• Developers working towards Biodiversity Net Gain requirements
• Community groups for urban regeneration projects 
• Schools as outdoor learning projects and ongoing educational resources
• Individuals who want to fight back for nature! 

 Micro forests deliver a range of environmental and social benefits:

• Increase biodiversity - Provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and small mammals. A 2019 study in the Netherlands recorded 595 species across 17 tiny forests.
• Capture carbon - A 200 m² micro forest can absorb an estimated 250 kg of CO₂ per year.
• Manage water naturally - Can absorb around 10,000 litres of rainwater annually, helping reduce flood risk.
• Improve health and wellbeing - Access to green space supports mental and physical wellbeing.
• Strengthen communities - Creates shared spaces that bring people together around nature.

 To find out more about planting a micro forest, email tim@microforests.co.uk