Tiny Forests are highly diverse micro-ecosystems consisting exclusively of native woody and shrub species. This type of urban mini-forest is based on a special methodology developed by the Japanese scientist Dr Akira Miyawaki. The method involves intensive soil cultivation in which, depending on the location, the nutrient availability, root penetration and water retention capacity of the soil is increased with the help of locally available biomass. A site-adapted plant community (mainly trees and shrubs) is selected and planted in close-knit plant associations.

The Tiny Forests are then available as "green classrooms" for educational activities.

The surface area should be at least 100 square metres and not narrower than 4 metres at any point.

The aim of a Tiny Forest is to create a self-sufficient forest ecosystem that requires minimal maintenance. Nevertheless, watering and maintenance are required for the first 2-3 years. The maintenance measures become less and less over time.

Planting Tiny Forests in cities offers a number of benefits. These mini-forests promote biodiversity, improve air quality, provide habitat for urban fauna and flora, reduce the urban heat island effect, store water, protect against erosion and promote the mental well-being of citizens, and provide educational and recreational opportunities for the community. By creating green oases in urban environments, Tiny Forests help to improve the quality of life in cities while making an important contribution to environmental protection.

Yes, that is possible. However, the area must of course be unsealed beforehand. As the soil underneath is probably heavily compacted and degraded, sufficient compost and Terra Preta should then be added and the soil loosened.

The high planting density increases the competitive pressure within the system. Coupled with the soil conditions created, a stable, primeval forest-like oasis is created after just 30 years, which would have taken at least 200 years to develop naturally. In addition, these forests are up to 20 times denser and on average 18 times more diverse than conventional forest systems.

Terra Preta is a fertile, dark type of soil that is mainly found in the Amazon, where it was developed by indigenous peoples. It is characterised by high fertility and long-lasting storage of nutrients. Biochar, also known as biochar, is an important component of Terra Preta. It is charcoal produced by the controlled combustion of biomass. Biochar improves the soil structure, increases the water storage capacity, stores CO2 and promotes biological activity in the soil.

We mainly plant native tree and shrub species. The selection of plants is based on the potential natural vegetation of the site, the site and soil conditions as well as current climate data and forecasts.

We plan Tiny Forest for private individuals, for schools and other educational institutions in the context of sustainable education, social institutions, cities/municipalities and for companies as part of CSR strategies and team-building events. In short: we work with everyone who wants to make the world a little greener.

If you commission us to plan and implement the Tiny Forest (incl. preparatory workshop and participatory planting campaign), you can roughly expect to pay 150 euros per square metre. This already includes all the materials (soil substrates, plants, fencing, etc.). We will be happy to advise you on financing options.

In the first 2-3 years, the Tiny Forest should be watered moderately and weeds should be removed. After that, the Tiny Forest no longer needs any care and should be left to its own devices.

Yes, Tiny Forests attract a variety of animals, including birds, insects, small mammals and amphibians. Birds find nesting sites and food in the dense canopy, while insects benefit from the flowers and variety of plants. Small mammals such as mice and squirrels also find shelter and food in a Tiny Forest. Last year, the British NGO EarthWatch published a comprehensive report with the results of its citizen science research on biodiversity in Tiny Forests.

We are currently working on a video workshop that explains the planning and realisation of a Tiny Forest and much more in great detail. You will soon be able to purchase this from us. We are also selling the recordings of the online workshops that have taken place so far. These cost 59.50€ and include several hours of video material, as well as sample planting lists and cost plans.

We are happy to help you plant your own Tiny Forest. However, we cannot offer detailed voluntary advice (although we are happy to answer specific questions). You can also hire us for advice and/or realisation of your Tiny Forest.

You are welcome to commission us for consulting and/or conceptualisation.

The area should be at least 100 square metres in size, have no underground or roof infrastructure and preferably no/few existing trees and shrubs. It should also be accessible for large machines and offer space for the delivery and storage of soil substrates. Ideally, the area should be publicly accessible and regularly used as a "green classroom" after planting.

There are already some studies and theses that prove and quantify the positive effects (air cooling, water storage, CO2 storage, etc.), but there is still a great need for research. We are currently summarising the research results and will be publishing them on our website soon. We are also conducting our own research on our Tiny Forests, recording data with measuring stations and will also publish these.

You are very welcome to support us with your donation (see start page at the bottom). We would also be delighted if you came to one of our planting events and planted a few trees with us.

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There are numerous financing options for Tiny Forests and we are happy to offer assistance.