Green Heart of Kenya is at the forefront of restoration and rewilding efforts, employing the Miyawaki method for afforestation by creating thriving forests. This method focuses on soil rehabilitation, green space creation, creating dense forests with native plants, and the promotion of sustainable living in Kilifi.
Green Heart of Kenya and the Green Heart Tree Nursery are currently exploring the Miyawaki method and its significance in restoring nature This unique method is used worldwide for urban afforestation by growing a forest in someone’s backyard.
The Miyawaki Method: Replicating Nature’s Colonization Process
Lawrence, the Green Heart nursery supervisor, says
The Green Heart of Kenya’s Nursery is embracing the Miyawaki method to mimic the natural process of forest colonization. By emulating the self-replicating dynamics of forests, this method aims to create diverse and resilient ecosystems similar to those observed in untouched regions like the Amazon. This method is a quicker and more effective reforestation approach for restoring indigenous ecosystems and maintaining global environments, including disaster prevention and carbon dioxide mitigation.
How the Miyawaki method works;
Overcoming Soil Compaction: Breaking the Hard Pan
To address the issue of compacted soil, Green Heart Nursery’s team diligently digs 40 meters deep to break the hard pan. This hard pan, as hard as concrete, inhibits the penetration of young roots and restricts access to nutrients and rainwater. By breaking this barrier, the soil becomes more conducive to root development and facilitates better nutrient absorption and water penetration.
Utilizing Biomass for Soil Fertility:
Dead leaves, cut branches of pruned trees, and slashed grass are utilized as biomass in the Miyawaki method. These organic materials are mixed with water and soil, creating a nutrient-rich mixture. When placed in the 40-meter-deep holes, this soil blend provides a fertile and soft foundation for afforestation.
High-Density Planting of Indigenous Trees:
In line with the Miyawaki method, Green Heart of Kenya aims to densely plant indigenous trees in a 100 -square-meter area. With three trees per square meter, this approach basically forces reproduction and accelerates natural successional times ensuring the rapid establishment of a biodiverse forest. The nursery is currently implementing the easy, cost-effective, rapidly growing, Miyawaki afforestation method in a forecourt garden for landowners who seek to restore their soil and increase tree coverage on their land.
By embracing the Miyawaki Method, we can work towards a more sustainable future where forests thrive and communities benefit from their presence. Through the application of the Miyawaki method and achieving our commitment to restoration and rewilding, Green Heart of Kenya is actively working towards building these sustainable futures.
