Growing Microforests

Food for People and our Planet

We restore environments by planting Miyawaki-method forests.

Focusing on soil health, we provide native plants, shrubs, and trees that provide food in dense designs and balanced patterns.

We educate communities about Maryland ecosystems with experience leading college students and volunteers and teaching children at schools and camps.

 

We also design, install, and maintain low-maintenance environments that support curiosity, wonder and beauty.

 

We are happy to speak at academic, nonprofit, and corporate events.

Reach out to us to revive your area and give you ecological advice.

 

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The best time to plant a forest is now.

How We Create a Miyawaki Microforest

At Eco Educational Design, we transform underused land into thriving native forests using the Miyawaki Method.

This proven approach grows trees 10x faster and 30x denser than conventional planting.

 

Here’s how we do it:

1. Site Assessment & Design

 

We start by visiting your site to understand its soil, sunlight, and existing vegetation.

Our team maps out the area, identifies invasive species, and designs a custom forest plan with native species suited to your local ecosystem.

 

For a $80 design deposit you get:

  • - Soil and drainage evaluation

  • - Invasive species removal plan

  • - Custom forest layout for your space with

  • $40 credit towards planting.

2. Native Species Selection

 

We choose a diverse mix of 30–50 native trees and shrubs that recreate a natural forest ecosystem of canopy, subcanopy, and understory layers.
All plants are locally sourced or grown from native seed to ensure maximum survival and biodiversity.

 

Benefits:

- Fast growth and resilience

- Wildlife habitat creation

- Natural nutrient cycling

 

3. Soil Prep & Regeneration

 

Healthy forests start with healthy soil.

We enrich the site with organic matter and mulch to restore life to compacted or depleted soil, encouraging root growth and microbial activity.

 

We add:

- Local compost, mulch, and beneficial fungi

- Water-retaining soil structure

- Deep aeration to boost root systems

4. Dense Planting

 

Trees are planted 3–5 per square meter, mimicking how forests grow in nature.
This density encourages cooperation, shade protection, and rapid growth to form a self-sustaining ecosystem in just a few years.

 

Results:

 

- Growth up to 1 meter per year

- Natural weed suppression

- Faster canopy closure

5. Mulching & Maintenance

 

After planting, we apply a thick mulch layer to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
For the first two to three years, we monitor growth, replace lost seedlings, and remove invasives until the forest becomes self-sustaining.

 

Support includes:

 

- Seasonal check-ins

- Invasive control

- Optional irrigation and tree guards

6. Long-Term Stewardship

 

Once established, your forest grows independently to provide decades of environmental, educational, and community benefits.

 

Your legacy:

 

- A self-sustaining native forest

- Cleaner air and water

- Habitat for pollinators and wildlife

- A living classroom for future generations

Start a restoration site plan

 

    After completing the form, our team will connect with you to create a reforestation strategy for your property. This will include learning your goals and providing each of the steps necessary to grow an ecosystem in an area.

 

    We offer an interlayered approach to afforestation that gives greater resilience and shelter for wildlife. With our diverse array of native plants we provide species for the specific fauna and environmental factors for your space.

 

    By balancing aesthetics and efficiency, we restore natural connection to the land and improve quality of life.