Miyawaki Forests : An Urban Afforestation Technique

Miyawaki Plantation Method- Named after the Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, Developed in the 1970s, its objective is to densify green cover within a small parcel of land, which revolutionized the concept of Urban afforestation, Involving planting two to four different types of indigenous trees within every square meter. Trees become self-sustaining for every square meter. Trees become self-sustaining and they grow to their full length within 3 years.

Process Includes:-

• The method includes planting trees as closely as possible.

• Planted saplings also support each other in growth.

• Block sunlight reaching the ground, preventing the growth of weeds.

• Saplings become maintenance-free (self-sustainable) after 3 years.

• Plant growth is estimated to be 10 times faster.

• The resulting plantation is 30 times denser than usual.

• Create a forest in just 20-30 years.

Miyawaki Trees:-

1. The native trees of the region are identified and divided into 4 layers- shrubs, sub-tree, trees, and canopy.

2. The quality of soil is analysed and biomass which would help enhance the perforation capacity, water retention capacity, and the nutrients in it is mixed with it.

3. The mound is built with the soil and the seeds are planted at a very high density.

4. The ground is covered with a thick layer of mulch.

Benefits of the Miyawaki Technique:-

1. Fight Climate Change

2. Lower temperatures in concrete heat islands

3. Curb pollution levels

4. Increase the green cover

5. Create Carbon sinks

Major places in India where it is being implemented are - Punjab, Telangana, Mumbai, Maharashtra and many other Metropolitan cities are adopting this method of Urban Afforestation.

A blog by Jitisha .S. Hiremath