Can you imagine transforming your garden into a green refuge, full of life and biodiversity, even in small spaces? Creating a forest in your home is not only possible, but it is also an excellent way to collaborate with the environment, improve the soil and enjoy a unique natural environment. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know to designing an urban forest or an edible forest that adapts to your space and needs.
From the revolutionary Miyawaki method to edible forest techniques, there are multiple ways to bring a miniature forest to life in your home. Read on to learn more. know the details of soil preparation, selection of native plants, design, initial care and benefits that this project can bring, both to your garden and to the planet.
Soil preparation: key to success
The foundation of any successful forest is the soil. Before you start planting, it is essential to prepare the soil, aerate it and enrich it to provide an environment suitable for healthy plant growth. It is recommended to mix the soil with organic materials that promote water retention and root penetration. For example, you can use rice, corn, wheat husks or even coco coir. These elements increase the permeability of the soil and help retain moisture.
organic fertilizers such as manure or compost are also essential for nourishing the soil. In addition, incorporating microorganisms that decompose organic matter accelerates the natural fertilization process, creating a rich and fertile soil.
Selection of native species
Choosing the right plants is crucial to ensuring the success of your forest. Prioritise species native to your region, as they are better adapted to the local climate and soil, and require less care once established. Divide species into layers based on their height and function: shrubs, medium-sized trees and tall, climbing and ground-covering plants.
For example, in Mediterranean climates you can opt for holm oaks, oaks and aromatic shrubs such as rosemary. These plants not only blend well with each other, but also attract beneficial fauna such as pollinators and birds.
Forest design and planting
Designing your forest involves mimicking the conditions of a natural ecosystem. Plants should be distributed in a dense and non-symmetrical manner to encourage interaction between species. This approach allows plants to generate synergies and the system to become self-sufficient over time. It is recommended to plant between 3 and 5 copies per square meter, covering the soil with mulch or plant cover to retain moisture and enrich the soil.
In the Miyawaki methodFor example, different plant layers are used that grow together and evolve rapidly. This system accelerates the growth of the forest until 10X faster delivery than a conventional forest.
First care and maintenance
Initial care is critical to ensure the forest thrives. During the first two years, it is necessary to water daily or according to weather conditions, remove weeds and monitor plant growth. Tie young plants to stakes to ensure their stability and avoid the use of chemicals such as pesticides or inorganic fertilizers.
As the ecosystem stabilizes, it requires less and less human intervention. Plants will begin to fertilize themselves naturally through the fallen leaves and mulch generated.
Benefits of having a forest in the garden
Creating a forest in your garden brings multiple benefits. Environmentally, these spaces help sequester carbon, improve air quality and increase local biodiversity. Aesthetically, a forest adds beauty and transforms your garden into a unique and lively space.
Plus, if you opt for an edible forest, you can enjoy fruits, vegetables, roots and freshly harvested aromatic herbs, rich in flavour and nutrients. This type of forest also encourages food self-sufficiency and provides educational value for the whole family.
Turning your garden into a forest is an exciting journey that combines creativity, sustainability and connection with nature. It doesn't matter if you have a large or small space, with planning and dedication you can create an ecosystem that is not only beautiful, but also resilient, functional and enriching.