How to Create a Miyawaki Mini-Forest?

What preliminary steps are necessary to create a Miyawaki micro-forest?

Discover the five essential steps required to establish a Miyawaki micro-forest.

1. Finding a suitable location

This is often the hardest part, as a location is needed where property rights are clear and it is ensured that the planted micro-forest can grow undisturbed for years or even decades. 

The Miyawaki micro-forest grows quickly, so the saplings that initially appear as mere twigs will, in two to three years, flourish into a dense green oasis, sometimes even in the midst of the grayest concrete jungle!

2. Securing the necessary funding 

Depending on the extent of the required soil replacement and the feasibility of watering and maintenance over several years, a Miyawaki forest can cost 50,000-120,000 HUF per square meter, which is important to consider during planning. 

Often, a collaborating company proposes the idea of planting a micro-forest to green the city, or a municipality sees potential in establishing a pocket forest in a district. In many cases, micro-forests have also been created through community funding in schools and public spaces, such as the birthday Miyawaki in 2024. We can assist in creating a fundraising page with card payment options for such community collections.

3. Selecting plants

When compiling the list of plant and tree species, it is advisable to consult with forest ecologists, gardeners, and forestry experts, and it is essential to create an association of at least 12 native tree and shrub species.

4. Soil replacement

One of the secrets to the rapid growth of a Miyawaki micro-forest is that the small trees must always be planted in improved, high-quality soil, which in urban environments often means a complete soil replacement.

In urban areas, we rarely encounter good, rich Hungarian soil. Most often, construction debris, rubble, cable remnants, or household waste lie beneath the surface.

Soil replacement ensures the often incredibly rapid growth of the planted saplings.

5. Planting

This is the best part!

Approximately four plants fit per square meter; we usually plant 3 trees and one shrub, but 3-6 individuals can be placed per square meter, so we often progress quickly, allowing time to chat and enjoy every moment of the planting!

+1. Nurturing – Aftercare

The first years are the most critical, so we closely monitor the fate of the planted micro-forests for three years. If necessary, we water them, once a week in the summer heat, and if needed, we replace or repair fences and support stakes.