What is the Miyawaki Method?

About Miyawaki Method:

• This method of afforestation was developed by renowned Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s.
• It is a revolutionary method for creating dense forests in limited spaces.
• It is often referred to as the ‘pot plantation method’, it involves planting trees and shrubs close to one another to accelerate their growth.
• The competition for sunlight encourages trees to grow more vertically and less laterally.
• It emphasises planting only plant species native to the local area. This fosters a more resilient and naturally balanced ecosystem.
• Plants grow 10 times faster with this technique, making it a practical solution for urban areas.
• They are much denser and house much more biodiversity — just like ancient, primordial forests.
• For the first two to three years, the forest requires regular watering, weeding, and monitoring.
• After this period, the forest becomes self-sustaining and requires minimal intervention.
• Advantages:
  • It improves soil quality, enhances biodiversity, and accelerates forest development.
  • Trees planted using the Miyawaki technique absorb more carbon, grow faster, and support richer biodiversity compared to traditional forests.
  • In urban settings, this technique has transformed polluted, barren lands into green ecosystems.
  • It has successfully managed industrial waste, reduced dust and foul odours, and curbed air and water pollution.
  • Additionally, it prevents soil erosion and promotes ecological balance, making it an effective tool for environmental restoration.