Tiny Forests: Small forests with a big impact
Green oases in the middle of the city - Tiny Forests are conquering more and more urban spaces and inspire with their variety of benefits for people and the environment. These small but amazingly effective forests show how a significant contribution can be made to urban greening, climate protection and the promotion of biodiversity even in a limited space.
At a time when green spaces in cities are becoming increasingly important, a new trend has emerged: Tiny Forests. These small but surprisingly diverse forests are increasingly taking over our urban spaces.
But what exactly does the term "Tiny Forest" mean? These are densely planted, species-rich forest areas that are created using the Miyawaki method. This method was developed by the Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki and aims to create fast-growing, stable ecosystems. Various native trees and shrubs are planted in high density in an area roughly the size of a tennis court (200 to 400 square metres). The use of different species and close planting creates a stable ecosystem in a short space of time that is largely self-sustaining.
Tiny Forests improve the urban climate
The benefits of Tiny Forests are manifold and cover ecological, social and health aspects. Among other things, the special planting technique ensures that rainwater is utilised efficiently. The trees and shrubs help to store the water and thus contribute to reducing flooding and erosion.
Another important benefit is the improvement of the microclimate in cities. The small forests provide shade and increase humidity, which provides cooling, especially on hot summer days. They also filter fine dust and other pollutants from the air, thus contributing to better air quality. By absorbing carbon dioxide, Tiny Forests also make a valuable contribution to climate protection.
Green oases for the urban population
Tiny Forests also serve as green oases of peace and relaxation and invite people to linger. They are often maintained and cared for by the local population in community activities, which strengthens social interaction and a sense of responsibility for the environment. Tiny Forests also offer children the opportunity to experience nature up close and learn through play. They can serve as green classrooms and promote environmental awareness among the younger generation.
More and more cities and municipalities are recognising the potential of Tiny Forests and are turning to this innovative form of urban greening. For example the Project "Einheitsbuddeln"which Schleswig Holstein launched in 2019. The vision: "Imagine if every person in Germany planted a tree on 3 October. 83 million. Every year. A new forest. From north to south, from east to west. For the climate. And for you and your family. For our future." Since then, the "Einheitsbuddeln" has taken place every year on German Unity Day throughout Germany. And anyone can take part, whether in their own garden or at a public planting party.
Also with Initiatives such as Citizens Forests are also actively campaigning for unused areas to be planted with native tree species using the Miyawaki method. Their aim is to establish a nationwide network of local reforestation projects from one of the world's largest tree nursery areas. A tree planting campaign was also organised in Eckernförde, a town in Schleswig-Holstein, as part of the GREEN SCREEN nature film festival.
Small forests as hotspots of biodiversity
Biodiversity is another important aspect that makes the Tiny Forests valuable elements of the urban landscape. Despite their small size, these small forests offer numerous animals an important habitat in the centre of the city. They serve as a refuge and food source for various bird species, which nest in the dense treetops and find shelter in the bushes. Insects such as butterflies, bees and beetles also benefit from the variety of plants and find ideal conditions here.
Tiny Forests act as green stepping stones in the often barren urban landscape. They help to promote the networking of biotopes by serving as connecting elements between larger green spaces such as parks or urban forests. This allows animals to move and spread within the urban area, which strengthens genetic diversity and the resilience of populations. The targeted selection of trees, shrubs and herbs that occur naturally in the region promotes local biodiversity.
Small forests are therefore more than just a passing trend - they are one of the many possible responses to the challenges of urbanisation and climate change. If you've now got the urge to plant a Tiny Forest, here are the instructions.
Six steps to your own Tiny Forest
- Find the perfect location: An area of at least 100 square metres is required to plant a microforest. Important: Accessibility and the possibility of long-term use.
- Tree species selection: A diverse selection of native trees and shrubs that are adapted to the local conditions.
- Soil analysis: A soil analysis is necessary to determine the composition and nutrient supply of the soil. This can be used to derive measures to improve the soil, such as enriching it with organic matter.
- Prepare the area: The soil must be loosened, cleared of weeds and enriched with locally available biomass.
- Plant together: One of the core elements in the realisation of a Tiny Forest is a community planting campaign.
- Development of the Tiny Forest: In the first two to three years, the Tiny Forest needs care by watering it when necessary, removing weeds and protecting it from browsing. After this establishment phase, the Tiny Forest is largely self-sustaining and no longer requires regular maintenance.
Cover picture: Plato Terentev/Pexels
Nadia Riaz-Ahmed is an online editor. She is most interested in everything to do with digitalization and new technologies.
