Sertoma Park is home to an experimental Miyawaki Forest. Miyawaki Forests are designed based on old growth forests. In these forests, seeds are dropped and grow densely together, quickly competing for available light. A Miyawaki Forest simulates that by planting 3-5 small, native tree and shrub saplings every square yard. By planting the trees and shrubs so close together, it causes them to grow tall quickly to compete for sunlight. This quick growth leads to taller trees. A Miyawaki Forest will grow 10 times as fast as a forest planted using conventional methods. 

Though only 10% of the plants will survive, below ground, the roots become closely intwined, supporting each other and providing a biologically dense and active soil. The netting of the roots also provides for a solid base structure, reducing the fall risk of a tall, fast-growing tree. 

This method has been practiced around the world with much success. It has been used as a successful method of restoring rainforest habitat, creating urban forests, and providing protection from tsunamis and easily flooded areas. 

• A Miyawaki Forest will grow 10x as fast as a forest planted using conventional methods. It will grow to be 30x denser and provide 20x more biodiversity than a conventionally planted forest. 
• Miyawaki Forests can be planted in spaces as small as 3 square meters. 
• 3-5 locally native trees and shrubs are planted every 1 square meter. 
• In this small experimental forest, there are 10+ species of trees and 10+ species of shrubs. 

• The plants provide a wide variety of food and shelter for birds and pollinators. 
• The excess leaf litter and dense web of roots quickly builds up the health of the soil. 
• The dense canopy provides a cooler, more hospitable space for pollinators and birds. 
• The high diversity of plants ensures long term success and significantly reduces maintenance of the forest. 

• How many birds can you see? How many do you hear?
• What kind of insects do you see?
• Can you see or smell any flowers? What about berries? 
• Take a picture at the Miyawaki Forest and share with us on facebook or instagram!