MICRO-FORESTS 101

A graphic image depicting one large tree, one small tree, and a variety of shrubs with a bird flying towards it on the left, a hummingbird to the right, and a butterfly above

Micro-forests (also called pocket forests, mini forests, and tiny forests) are densely-planted and multilayered groupings of native trees and shrubs planted in small urban spaces which act as self-sustaining ecosystems that reconnect fragmented habitat and restore biodiversity in the city.

Micro-forests in LA are inspired by the Miyawaki Method of Japan, but modified and adapted for the unique ecology of Los Angeles, using regionally-appropriate woodland habitats as the LA micro-forest design template.

Want more background about how micro-forests in LA have been modified from the Miyawaki Method? Learn more HERE.

Micro-Forests are:

Designed for the region…

using native plant species which are regionally-appropriate and which are capable of surviving without supplemental water after they are established.

Densely planted…

in order to provide maximum habitat value, soil revitalization, erosion control, and weed suppression as quickly as possible with the least amount of ongoing maintenance.

Dynamic…

following natural successional patterns of growth, which means that the landscape mimics Mother Nature by going through different phases of ecological development during the process of maturing.

Diverse…

featuring a great variety of native plant species, heights, and vegetation layers, which in turn support the greatest amount of biodiversity in the form of pollinators, birds, and other life.

Dimunitive…

oftentimes fitting into spaces as small as 200 square feet, which increases the opportunities for positive ecological impacts in highly urbanized areas with reduced access to large open spaces.