“We are thrilled to be creating the first Pocket Forest in NYC using the Miyawaki Method of tight-knit planting of young trees close together proven to boost faster growth,” said iDig2Learn Founder Christina Delfico. The New York Times heard about it and, yesterday, reported on it.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
With a little more love and some luck, Southpoint Park may one day resemble the rendering above. The fast-growing vertical trees at the center illustrate the results of a planned urban forest.
iDig2Learn is developing the project with pocket forest pioneer Sugi, which is funding it, with full cooperation from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC).
What Is the Miyawaki Method?
The Miyawaki Method is a technique for growing fast-growing forests that are rich in biodiversity. It was developed by Japanese ecologist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s. Here are the key principles:
- Native Species: The method emphasizes planting only native species of trees, shrubs, and other understory plants that would naturally occur in the specific area. This fosters a more resilient and ecologically balanced forest.
- Dense Planting: Unlike traditional forestry with widely spaced trees, the Miyawaki Method involves planting seedlings very densely, often at 30,000 to 50,000 trees per hectare. This dense planting creates competition for sunlight, stimulating faster vertical growth and leading to a more mature forest in a shorter timeframe.
- Soil Preparation: The method prioritizes improving the soil quality before planting. This often involves adding organic matter like compost or rice husks to enrich the soil and support healthy seedling growth.
- Minimal Maintenance: After planting and initial care for the first two or three years (including weeding), Miyawaki forests require minimal maintenance. The dense canopy suppresses weed growth, and the established native ecosystem can thrive on its own.
Benefits of the Miyawaki Method:
- Faster Forest Growth: Compared to traditional planting methods, Miyawaki forests can mature at a much faster rate, reaching a resemblance to natural forests within 10-20 years.
- Increased Biodiversity: Planting a diverse range of native species fosters a rich habitat for wildlife, attracting birds, insects, and other animals.
- Enhanced Carbon Capture: Faster-growing and denser forests can capture and store more atmospheric carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change mitigation.
- Improved Soil Health: The focus on native species and organic matter enrichment promotes healthy soil conditions.
- Reduced Water Needs: Once established, Miyawaki forests are relatively self-sustaining and require less irrigation compared to other plantations.
While the Miyawaki Method offers significant advantages, there are also some considerations:
- Higher Initial Cost: Due to the dense planting and focus on native species, establishing a Miyawaki forest can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional forestry methods.
- Site Suitability: The method is best suited for areas with favorable climates and good soil conditions.
- Expert Guidance: Planning and implementing a Miyawaki project can benefit from expertise in plant selection, soil preparation, and ongoing maintenance during the initial stages.
Overall, the Miyawaki Method is a promising approach for restoring ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and combating climate change.
What the Promenade Remembers
The light on the East River in the early morning is different from the light anywhere else on the Island. It comes in low and sideways, catching the water in long, uneven flashes. On certain days it makes the promenade feel less like a walkway and more like a corridor someone once meant to finish but never quite did. When I was younger I found the suggestion to stop and look at it faintly ridiculous.
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