Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that you can't find the answer to here, feel free to reach out and ask us directly!
What are
little forests?
Little forests are densely-planted communities of trees that are well suited for small spaces. Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki developed a method that has been implemented to plant thousands of little forests in Japan and beyond. It allows trees to grow densely and quickly.
What is the Miyawaki method?
Soil
Soil quality improved before planting by adding carbon (hay or straw), biological matter (compost), and increase water retention (woodchips)
Tree Selection
Include many tree and shrub species, all native and suited to site's conditions. There are typically 30 different species in one Miyawaki forest!
​
Planting
All plants are planted very close together (3 trees or shrubs per square meter). Using plants of different heights allows for this density
​
What are benefits of the Miyawaki method?
30x as much carbon
per square meter compared to traditional monoculture vegetation
18x more biodiverse
combating biodiversity loss and creating a healthier environment for all creatures
10x as faster growing
than spaced out vegetation, meaning if a tree starts at knee height it will be taller than you in a few years!
easy access to quality natural spaces in cities prove to be
better for mental health
​
biodiverse vegetation and rich environment provides
habitats for countless species
microclimate created by the little forest can cool surroundings by
2º or more of cooling