Miyawaki’s

Rapid Afforestation
 Miyawaki’s
Rapid Afforestation
 CONTENTS

STEP 1: SOIL TEXTURE & BIOMASS ...................... 1

STEP 2: TREES .............................................................. 9

STEP 3: DESIGN ........................................................... 11

STEP 4: SITE READINESS .......................................... 16

STEP 5: BILL MATERIALS ......................................... 24

STEP 6: EXECUTION OF TREE PLANTING ............. 26

STEP 7: MAINTENANCE & MONITORING .............. 37

 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

DETERMINE SOIL TEXTURE AND QUANTIFY BIOMASS

WHAT
Soil Texture is the composition of soil in relation to Sand, Silt and Clay, with sand being the
coarsest fraction and clay being the finest
WHY
The soil texture will help us determine the following properties of the soil:
• Water holding capacity
• Water infiltration
• Root perforation capacity
• Nutrient retention
• Erodibility
WHO
Forest Creators
WHEN
Pre execution technical work
HOW
This is a simple do it yourself method. Here’s a summary of steps: (Reference Video: Test 1)
I. Hold the soil in your hand.
II. Push it together to break it into smaller pieces.
III. Anything that is more than 2 mm in size (rocks etc.) should be removed.
IV. Make sure you have a palm full of soil.
V. If the soil is dry, then add a little bit of water.
VI. Work it between your hands to form a nice moist ball.
VII. Make sure that you don’t make it too wet, but you need it to come together nicely.
VIII. While you form the ball, if there is sand in the soil, then you can mostly see and feel
the coarse sand.
IX. If there is fine sand in it, then you can hold the ball close to your ear and hear it
grinding together when you play with the ball in your hand.
X. If its clay, then it feels like plasticine, very sticky. The ball holds together nicely.
XI. If it has silt, then it stains your hand, and it feels silky.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

XII. After you have a rough idea of the type, then form a ribbon.
XIII. Determine exact soil type using ribbon test chart
(Note: loam is a mix of sand, silt and clay)
(Reference Video: TEST 2)
Summary of steps:
I. Get a palm full of soil, make it wet and knead it thoroughly.
II. Knead the soil to break down all aggregates.
III. Try to form a ball.
IV. If you cannot form a ball then the soil is Sandy.
V. If you can form a ball then it is some other soil type.
VI. Make soil ribbons and let them break under their own weight.
VII. If you are unable to form ribbons, then the soil is Loamy Sand
VIII. If it forms ribbon – then it is some other soil type
IX. If the ribbon formed is <= 2.5 cm ribbon, then it some kind of Loam soil. To determine
the type of Loam soil, here’s the test:
a. Place some soil in your palm
b. Make it excessively wet
c. Rub it thoroughly with your forefinger
d. Check whether it feels ‘Gritty’ or ‘Smooth’
e. Does it feel Smooth like flour, Gritty like Sugar or Gritty like Sand?
f. Very Gritty – Sandy loam
g. Very Smooth – Silt Loam
h. Neither Gritty Nor Smooth – Loam
IX. If the ribbon formed is 2.5-5 cm, then it some kind of Clay Loam soil. To determine
the type of Clay Loam soil, here’s the test:
a. Place some soil in your palm
b. Make it excessively wet
c. Rub it thoroughly with your forefinger
d. Check whether it feels ‘Gritty’ or ‘Smooth’
e. Does it feel Smooth like flour, Gritty like Sugar or Gritty like Sand?
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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

f. Very Gritty – Sandy Clay loam

g. Very Smooth – Silt Clay Loam
h. Neither Gritty Nor Smooth – Clay Loam
IX. If the ribbon formed is >=5 cm, then it some kind of Clay soil. To determine the type
of Clay soil, here’s the test:
j. Place some soil in your palm
k. Make it excessively wet
l. Rub it thoroughly with your forefinger
m. Check whether it feels ‘Gritty’ or ‘Smooth’
n. Does it feel Smooth like flour, Gritty like Sugar or Gritty like Sand?
o. Very Gritty – Sandy Clay
p. Very Smooth – Silty Clay
q. Neither Gritty Nor Smooth – Clay

Soil Type Exist- Existing Water Retention Material Perforation material

ing water Perforation (Quantity required) Kg/Sq (Quantity required)
Retention Capacity Mtr Kg/Sq Mtr
Capacity
Sandy Low High 8 4
Loamy Sand Medium High 6 4
Sandy Loam Low High 8 4
Silty Loam Medium Medium 6 6
Loam High High 5 5
Sandy Clay Medium Medium 6 7
Loam
Silt Clay Loam Low Medium 7 6
Clay Loam Low Medium 7 6
Sandy Clay Low Low 7.5 7
Silty Clay Low Low 8 8
Clay Low Low 9 10
Nitrogen Organic Carbon Fertilizer Quantity required) Kg/Sq Mtr
Very High Very High 3
High High 4
Normal Normal 5
Less Less 6
Very Less Very Less 6.5

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

MATERIALS SELECTION
I. Perforator
WHAT
Biomass that is spongy and dry in nature.
WHY
A new material needs to be added to the soil to help the plant roots perforate more. Thus, the
material should be such that root perforation is more than what occurs under normal soil conditions.

WHO
Forest maker. Materials-procurement person.
WHEN
After afforestation area is finalized.
HOW
The soil needs to be conditioned with a perforation material such as rice husk, wheat husk, crushed
corn husk. These materials are mainly used for animal feed. The main purpose is to add something
that increases the soil’s capacity to allow easy perforation of roots through itself. This allows the
roots to grow quickly as the perforation material acts like a root trainer that aidshealthy cultivation
of plant roots. One natural characteristic of any perforation material is that it feels spongy. Take
a fist full of the perforation material being tried. When you close and open your fist, the material
should feel like a sponge.
Husk is a by product and easily available at grain mills and animal feed stores. Few of the
suggested perforation materials would be. Ricehusk, wheat husk, corn husk (chipped), groundnut
shells (chipped) etc.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

II. Water Retainer

WHAT
Biomass that is spongy and dry in nature.
WHY
A new material needs to be added to the soil in order to help it retain more moisture and water
as compared to its natural water retention capacity.
WHO
Forest maker. Materials-procurement person.
WHEN
After afforestation area is finalized
HOW
Natural material such as coco-peat or dry sugarcane stalk can be used. Anything that naturally
holds any form of juice or liquid in itself will always be a natural water retention material. For
e.g. a coconut holds coconut water in it while sugarcane has juice. A good test is to dip the material
into water for some time, and take it out and squeeze. If water oozes out during squeezing, then
the material can be used as water retention material.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

III. Fertiliz er
WHAT
Compost
WHY
A new material needs to be added to the soil in order to improve its nutrient content. Thus, the
material should be such that nutrients already available in the soil get significantly increased.
This material takes care of any organic content and mineral deficiency discovered in the soil test.
WHO
Forest maker. Materials-procurement person.
WHEN
After afforestation area is finalized.
HOW
The material chosen should be organic in nature. There are different kinds of nourishment
materials that can be used, depending on region and availability, such as:
• Cow Manure
• Goat Manure
• Vermicompost
Farmyard manure is the best as it continues to decompose slowly in the soil. Manure is a slow
nutrient releasing plant fertilizer. It provides small amounts of nutrients over an extendedperiod.
Vermicompost on the other hand is already in a highly decomposed state, thus giving a quick
initial dose of nourishment to the soil. Its nourishment capacity reduces much faster compared
to farmyard manure. One needs to ensure that the manure is dry and old (2 to 3 years).
Good farmyard manure has fewer clumps. This makes it easier to mix it into the soil.
IV. MULCHING MATERIAL
WHAT
Mulching is the process of covering the soil with a suitable material. This is to be done as soon
as the plantation completes. Hence one needs to find a supplier and procure mulching material
in advance.
WHY
The mulch insulates and protects the soil. It prevents sunlight from falling directly on the soil.
This is especially important for the first 6-8 months as the plants are young. Direct sunlight on
the soil will make it dry and make the conditions difficult for the young saplings. It also plays a
huge role in preventing the water from evaporating.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

WHO
Owners/Creators
WHEN
Pre execution material procurement
HOW
There are lots of different kinds of materials that can be considered for mulching. Some examples
include:
• Rice straw
• Wheat Straw
• Corn stalk
• Barley Stalk
Ensure the following:
• Mulching material should be dry
• It should not have any seed content
• It should be bundled/tied up and packed properly for easy handling
Ensure that the material is unloaded in the area designated for it.
You must get the delivery truck weighed and get exact weight measurements. Quantity is 2 Kg
/ Square Meter.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

How to select tree species for plantation

Step1 Make a database of all native species of your area. (Sample database in the end of this sheet)

  Items indatabase:

Botanical The scientific name of the tree, sometimes you may find more than one scientific
 
Name: name of the tree, use the most common used scientific name in this case.

Common
List down what these trees are called locally, try to write the names in local lan-
  Name in Local
guage script, it will most useful during procurement.
Language:

  Type: Find out and list down whether the tree is Evergreen, Deciduous or Perennial.  

A tree can have various advantages, however we want to restrict the listing to,
  Advantage:
fruit, bird-attracting, flowering, wood, medicinal.

  Height Tallest the specie of that tree can grow. (Use maximum height, not average)

  Layer Assign layer:

A multilayer forest can have many layers but here we are going make every tree
   
listed in the database fit into either of 4 layers.

Shrub Layer: Also know as undergrowth, these are small trees which grow up to
   
a maximum of human height or a little taller.

Sub Tree Layer: Trees which are taller than human but in comparison to normal
   
trees found in forest are still small

    Tree Layer: Common trees based on average height of trees in your geography.

Canopy Layer: Trees that grow into giants, these are the tallest trees in the local
   
forest.

    Fix the layers based on the height range of trees.

For Example, in India the tallest tree grows up to 50 Meters, Shrub Layer = 2-6
    Meters, Sub Tree= 6-15 Meters, Tree= 15-35 Meters and everything taller than
35 Meters is Canopy.

    Mark each row with different colour based on the tree's layer.

Step2 Check the native species saplings availability in the nursery on following criteria.

  Age of sapling Ideal age would be 18-24 months.

Height of
  Should be less than 1 Meter. Ideal height is 60 Centimeters to 80 Centimeters .
sapling

    List down the availability in copy of species database.

Step3 Assigning Percentages to available species.

Major Species, Choose 5 different species to be the major forest species, these should be the spe-
  cies which you commonly find in your area.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

   Assign 8 to 10 percent to each of them. This will constitute 40-50% of number of trees in the forest.

Supporting Species,
  Assign 2-4% to each specie to other common species of the area, the total will be 25-40%

  Minor Species Assign 0.2- 1% to other native species of the area.*

 *We should try to plant as many species as possible for biodiversity. However in smaller areas the
  species which has percentage assigned below 0.5 % may not get included while placing the order.

Percentage
  correction Tweaking the percentage distribution based on categorical subtotals

Based on Type: We want to create an evergreen forest, so total percentage of evergreen species
  should exceed 70%.

Layer wise
  distribution: Subtotal of each layer should vary between the given range.

    Shrub Layer: 8 to12 %  

    Sub Tree Layer 25 to 30%  

    Tree Layer 40 to 50%  

    Canopy Layer 15 to 20 %

Advantage, Assign higher percentages to trees based on their advantage of your choice, Example: if
  you are planting a fruit forest, 50% of the species should be fruit bearing.
Sample Database    Sample Plant Order List
Common Common Advantage
Sl. Botanical Name in Ht.
English Type Layer Availability %
No. Name Local (Mtrs)
Name 1 2
Language
Azadi-
Ex 1 rachta Turakevu Neem Evergreen Medicinal   25 Tree Yes 8
indica
Tectona
Ex 2 Sagavani Teak Deciduous Timber   40 Canopy Yes 3
grandis
Punica
Pome- Sub
Ex 4 grana- Daalimbe Perennial Fruit Birds 8 Yes 2
tum granate Tree

Jasmine Dundu-
Ex 5 Jasmin Evergreen Flower   3 Shrub Yes 2
sambac Mallige

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

DESIGN
I. Master Plan
WHAT
A master plan clearly indicates the area designated for afforestation.
WHY
The total area for afforestation (in Sq. Mtrs) is to be precisely calculated in order to determine
the amount of material required.
Project execution is planned on the basis of the master plan.
WHO
Chief architect of the project.
WHEN
Before we start project preparation.
HOW
Provide the essential requirements of afforestation to the architect and get the area sketched on
the master plan.
The essential requirements are:
1) Ideally, the Forest should be at-least 4 meters wide for maximum impermeability.
• The minimum width needed for Miyawaki Method of afforestation is 3 meters. However,
for best results, the ‘recommended’ width is 4 meters.

II. Watering Plan

WHAT
Water pipeline layout in order to water the forest.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

WHY
For first two-three years, the forest has to be watered regularly.
WHO
Client’s architect or Afforestt’s recommended designer will do the pipeline design.
WHEN
Before we start project preparation.
HOW
A main line has to be designed based on daily water requirement for the entire area, backed by
bore wells and overhead tanks.
Essential requirements are.
1) The watering facility design has to be made with a main line with watering outlets
for hoses, which can reach the entire area of the forest.
• Main line capacity has to be ‘W X A’, where A is Afforestation area in sq. mtrs and W is
watering requirement in liters per sq. mtrs per day.

III. Proj ect Execution Planning

WHAT
Design for facilities for project execution.
WHY
To complete the execution without compromising on quality standards and for ease of operation.
WHO
Client’s architect or Afforestt’s recommended designer along with an Afforestt consultant.
WHEN
Before we start project preparation.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

HOW
Design the following spaces in AutoCAD on the master plan file:
1. Material storage area-
• It has to be 10% of the total afforestation area. One material storage area for every 4,000
sq. mtrs of afforestation area is required.
• Has to be within close proximity of the site.
• Approach road from storage area to afforestation area is essential.
2. Saplings storage area-
• It has to be 5% of the total afforestation area. One saplings storage area for every 4,000
sq. mtrs of afforestation area is required.
• Has to be within close proximity of the site.
• Approach road from storage area to afforestation area is essential.
3. Site office-
• Should have easy access to the entire afforestation area.
• Should have road connectivity to the entrance of the property.
4. Resting area for the labor-
• Covered area with drinking water facility and sitting area for meals.
• Should have washing area and toilets.
5. Tools and equipment storage area.
• Protected from rain and wind.
• Access to designated personnel only.
6. Approach roads to the afforestation area for earthmover access.
7. Approach roads to the material storage area and saplings storage area with truck access.

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 SAMPLE SPECIES SELECTION AT MITAHAR
SL Scientific Name Common and Local name Specialty/Type Height Layer % Qty.
1 Thespesia populnea Paras Peepal, Indian Tulip Flower 12 sub tree 1 120
2 Sterculia urens Kadayo Exudes gum, edible roots & seeds 15 sub tree 2 240
3 Aegle Marmelos Bili, Bel, Stone apple, wood apple Fruit 18 tree 0.5 60
4 Citrus Limon (L) Burm.F Limbu Fruit 5 shrub 1 120
5 Limonia acidissima L. Kothi, Kotha Fruit, Medicinal 20 tree 0.5 60
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

6 Murraya paniculata L Kamini, Jaswanti Flower 4 shrub 1 120

Tree of Heaven, Moto Arduso,
7 Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. Medicinal 25 tree 0.5 60
Rukhdo
8 Azadirachta indica Neem, Limbdo Medicinal 25 tree 8 960
Bakam Limdo, Bakain, Pride of
9 melia azedarach Flowers 25 tree 1 120
India
10 Commiphora wightii Gugal Gummy resin (incense & perfume) 4 shrub 3 360
11 Zizyphus mauritiana Ber, Mota Bor, Indian Jujube Fruit 12 sub tree 2 240
12 sapindus emarginatus Indian Soapnut, Aritha Medicinal, Bird attracting 18 tree 0.5 60

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13 Mangifera indica Mango Fruit 40 canopy 1 120
14 Butea Monosperma Kesudo, Khakharo, Palash Flower 15 sub tree 1 120
Indian Rosewood
15 dalbergia sissoo Timber 30 tree 8 960
Sheesham, Moto Sisam
16 pterocarpus marsupium Indian Kino, Biyo Medicinal 30 tree 0.5 60
17 Derris Indica Karanj, Kanaji Biodiesel, leguminous, evergreen 20 tree 8 960
18 Bauhinia Variegata Kachnar, Purple Orchid Flower 12 sub tree 1 120
19 Cassia Fistula Amaltas, Garmaro Flower 12 Sub Tree 2 240
20 Cassia Javanica Java ki Rani, Pink Shower Flower 25 Tree 1 120
21 Saraca Indica Sita Ashok   15 Sub Tree 1 120
22 Acacia chundra Khair Heartwood yields cutch/kathha 15 Sub Tree 2 240
23 Acacia jacquemontii Rato Baval Fodder, Hardy Shrub 3 Shrub 2 240
24 Acacia Nilotica Desi Baval, Indian Gum Arabic Hardy, Fodder, Drought resistant 20 Tree 1 120
Hari Baval, Harmo Baval Hardy, Edible seeds, Nitrogen Fix-
25 acacia leucophloea 35 Canopy 2 240
White Bark Acacia ing
26 Acacia Senegal Gum Acacia, Garodia Baval Medicinal Gum 15 sub tree 2 240
 Bishnoi tree, edible pods khejri
27 prosopis cineraria Khejri, Khijado, Shami 10 sub tree 2 240
'sangri'
28 Terminalia Arjun Arjun Birds 30 Tree 2 240
29 Terminalia Bellirica Bahera, Baheda Flowers, medicinal 50 Canopy 2 240
30 Psidium guajava Guava Fruit 15 sub tree 1 120
31 Syzygium cumini  Jambu, Jamun Fruit 30 tree 4 480
32 Anthocephalus indicus Kadamb Medicinal 45 Canopy 2 240
33 Manilkara hexandra Khirni, Ceylon Iron Wood, Rayan Flower 20 Tree 4 480
34 Mimusops elengi  Bullet Wood, Bakul Fruit 20 Tree 0.5 60
35 Salvadora Oleoides Khabar, Peelu, Bada Peelu Fruit 9 Sub Tree 2 240
36 Salvadora Persica Peelu Twigs used as toothbrush 6 Shrub 3 360
37 Alstonia scholaris Daevasurippi, Saptparni Flower 40 Canopy 2 240
38 Carissa congesta Karamdi, Karaunda Edible 5 Shrub 2 240
39 Cordia dichotoma Lasuda, Moto Gundo Flower 10 Sub Tree 2 240
40 Cordia sinensis Goondi Birds, edible fruit 12 Sub Tree 2 240
Indian cork tree
41 Millingtonia hortensis Flower 25 Tree 1 120

15
neem chameli, desi buch
42 Tectona grandis Teak Timber 40 Canopy 1 120
43 Vitex Negundo Nirgundi, Nagod, Dhuni Medicinal 8 Sub Tree 1 120
44 Santalum album Indian Sandalwood, Chandan Timber 9 Sub Tree 1 120
45 Drypetes roxburghii Putranjeeva Medicinal 12 Sub Tree 1 120
46 Emblica Officinalis Aamla Fruit 18 Tree 8 960
47 Ficus benghalensis Banyan Birds 30 Tree 1 120
48 Ficus Tsiela Basari (Beli), piper   20 Tree 1 120
49 Ficus drupacea Pipli wasp, birds 25 Tree 1 120
          TOTAL 100 12000

Description % Allocated No. of Species Total % Description No. of Species Total %

Major Species 8% and 4% 6 40 Shrub 6 12
Supporting 3% and 2% 18 38 Sub Tree 17 26
Minor 1% and 0.5% 25 22 Tree 20 52
  Total 49 100 Canopy 6 10
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Total 49 100
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

PREPARATIONS
I. PHYSICAL PROJ ECT EXECUTION READINESS CHECK.
WHAT
A site visit is a physical inspection or survey of the prospective site being considered for forest
creation.
WHY
A site visit helps in determining feasibility and scope of being able to plant a forest on the
prospective site. It will help the creators of the forest assess the prospective site on key parameters
that need to be fulfilled under pre project preparations.
WHO
The site should first be visited by the owners of the land. This sometimes becomes important
when the owners have been living away from the site and are not aware of actual conditions on
ground. For e.g. the approach road to the site might be blocked and needs to be fixed before
planning afforestation. The site should then be visited by the forest creators.
WHEN
This is the very first step.
HOW
1. Go to the site and take pictures of the proposed afforestation area.
2. Check the site for Afforestation Readiness by confirming the availability of.

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• Fencing
• Maintenance Staff
• Running Water
• Sunlight

II. DEBRIS AND WEEDS CLEANING OF THE ENTIRE AREA

WHAT
The property selected for afforstation should not have wild grass, weed etc. growing. If there is
any such growth then it should be cleared
WHY
A site with wild weed and grass growing everywhere will have the following negative impacts:
• The weed/grass will spread on to the forest and jeopardize the health of the forest
• Storage and movement of material will become difficult
• People working on-site (workers and machine drivers) are prone to injuries by thorns
etc.
WHO
Labor should be hired for this or the area could be voluntarily cleared. If the site is huge, then a
J CB or a J ohn Deere tractor’s bucket is also effective.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

WHEN
Essential part of pre execution area preparation
HOW
Clearing out should be done manually or with machine. Remember the following:
• The weeds being pulled out should be thrown away from the site or else it tends to
re-grow.
• Weed growth is not greenery. Weeds take away nutrition from the soil. Soil needs a
proper forest cover, for it to remain healthy and nutritious. Wild undergrowth in a forest
should not be confused with wild weed growing across a property that has been left
unchecked.

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III. WATERING FACILITY INSTALLATION

WHAT
Plumbing work for watering the forest.
WHY
To water the forest everyday for 2-3 years.
WHO
Professional Plumbers
WHEN
Immediately after the master plan is finalized.
HOW
The forest needs to be watered the old fashioned way using a hosepipe with a shower. Hence,
watering has to be done manually. Do NOT try drip irrigation, sprinklers etc.

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IV. PHYSICAL DEMARCATION OF AREAS

WHAT
Marking of the actual afforestation area as per the master plan.
WHY
For the machinery to begin the earthwork, it needs to be given an exact area to work on.
WHO
Project Execution team.
WHEN
Before the start of earthwork.
HOW
Ensure that the area being marked matches 100% with the master plan.
Ensure that you have the CAD drawings with you during the physical demarcation exercise. The
CAD drawings will give the exact dimensions and mound designs.
A simple way of physically demarcating is with limestone powder. However you might want to
look into options such as wooden pegs and ropes used in combination. Measurement is the key
and hence having a good measuring tape is very important. Make sure every measurement taken
during the demarcation exercise, matches with the AutoCAD drawings. Typically, it takes 3-4
people to measure and demarcate effectively.
Once demarcated, always double check and verify that the markings and measurements are right.
Mark all the areas drafted on afforestation Execution design.

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V. INSTALLING AREA IDENTIFICATION BOARDS FOR THE SITE

WHAT
There are several important areas on site, apart from the one where the actual forest is being
created. We must install identification and direction boards/signage for the same.
WHY
It is easy to feel lost when one is looking for a specific area on the property during forest creation.
These signages will help people save time.
WHO
Signages should be made in-house by the owners. Installation should be done by the creators.
Check illustration as example.
WHEN
Essential part of pre execution area preparation
HOW
Get the following signages made and installed:
1. Arrows
2. Sapling storage area
3. Biomass storage area
4. Mulch Storage area
5. Other Consumables
6. Tools and equipment storage area
7. Toilets
8. Resting Sheds
9. Drinking water and refreshments
10. Meeting space
11. Forest
Please check the CAD drawings and do a physical check before installing the boards.
VI. MAKING APPROACH ROAD TO AND FROM MARKED AREAS
WHAT
Making roads and pathways as per the execution drawing.
WHY
To move materials, people and vehicles in and around site.
WHO
Earthmovers
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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

WHEN
Before material procurement.
HOW
On sites that have been lying vacant for too long, path making to and from the unloading area is
only about clearing out all the weed growth. Additionally, one needs to keep in mind that trucks
and tractors have enough space on the paths to drive.If the path is just earth/soil, then make sure
that it does not have big rock boulders and stones. This ensures safety. The path could be gravel,
sand, soil, stone paved or tar.
VII. MOUND IDENTIFICATION BOARDS ON SITE
WHAT
As explained earlier, forest creation happens on mounds. Once the earthwork is done, what we
create is a ‘mound’ on which the actual plantation happens. Each mound to be dug up and planted
should have a serial number.
WHY
A unique serial number given to each mound will help in the following ways:
• It will give us the order in which the areas demarcated need to be dug out
• It gives us the order in which the mounds are created and planted upon. This gives the
exact age of each mound. This helps in tracking growth and survival with start date
indicated by the number given to the mound.
WHO
Signages should be made in-house by the owners. Installation should be done by the creators.
Check illustration as example
WHEN
Essential part of pre execution area preparation
HOW
Here’s how this needs to be done:
1. Each mound typically is 100 square meters. Once demarcated for digging, it should have
a board/signage next to it with its serial number.
2. This is the order that needs to be followed in earthwork and plantation.
3. Remember that when the earth is dug out, all the soil is dumped next to the trench.Do not
start digging work in front of this trench, unless the plantation for it completes. Any digging
in front will block access to the original trench. Thus, in this case, digging work for the
second mound should begin only when the first one has been planted.
4. One must remember that the order in which the earthwork and planting needs to happen,
should be fixed keeping in mind easy accessibilityand free working area for each mound.
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Name:
Site readiness Check sheet - Forest Creation Approximate Area Date:
Status &
Sl.
Key Checks Comments
No.
(OK/ X / NA
1 Sunlight: The site should get sunlight for a minimum period of 8-9 hours in a day.  
Underground clearance: No pipes/drains/wires should be present under the af-
2a
forestation area, to a minimum depth of 1 meter.  
If pipes, drains, wires etc. are present underground, then they should be clearly
2b
marked on the drawing.  
Clear the Site: Confirm that the site is clear from waste of any form (debris, metal
3
etc.) and is nothing but an empty space to work.  
Soil: Uniform presence of soil beneath the surface to be confirmed. Any presence
4a of construction debris, rock boulders, bricks, inorganic waste, metal scrap etc. to be
ruled out.  
If this cannot be confirmed, then it is to be checked using excavation machine, by
4b
digging up to 1.5-2 meters at 5-6 random points across the site.  
Water: Watering requirement: 5 Liters/ Sq. Meter/ Day. Total Requirement Per
5a
Day  
Confirm presence of water connection, with main line running along the periphery
5b
of the site.  
5c Confirm connections with hose-pipes(+showers) that can cover the entire site.  
Biomass Unloading and Mixing Area: Identify and mark approx 400 sq m closest
6a
possible space to the site.  
6b Ensure clear connectivity to 'entry' and 'exit' gates of the property.  
Identify and mark the path connecting the "Biomass Unloading and Mixing Area"
6c
to the site.  
Sapling Unloading and Stocking Area: Identify and mark approx 400 sq m clos-
7a
est possible space to the site.  
7b Ensure clear connectivity to 'entry' and 'exit' gates of the property.  
7c This area should have proper water connections for watering of the saplings.  
Identify and mark the path connecting the "Sapling Unloading and Stocking Area"
7d
to the site.  
Protection: Confirm presence of fence and security, to avoid any possible damage
8
to the site in future from machines, humans or cattle.  
Onsite office: Confirm access to a room for Afforestt personnel for discussions,
9
meetings and breaks.  
Labor Resting Area: confirm presence of a designated area for the workers to rest
10
and have water.  
Equipment Storage Room: Confirm presence of a room that can be locked after
11
the end of a work day.  
Physical demarcation: Confirm demarcation using limestone powder, sticks,
12
ropes etc.  
23
 Afforestation-Project Execution BOM for Alaap Prepared on 27-07-2017
Afforestation Area (Fixed) 200 Sq. Mtrs. Project execution Start date (Not fixed)
Plantation Density (Fixed) 3 Saplings Per Sq Mtr Project execution End Date (Not fixed)
Working hours per day (Man)
Execution Time (Variable) 5 Days 8
Daily Area Covered During Earth Work 40 Sq. Mtrs. Working hours per day (Machine) 8
Number of Trees Planted 600 Number Afforestt's Personnel on Site 1 or 2
Estimated project cost 1,81,420 INR
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Cost per Sq Mtr Rs. Per Sq Mtr

Bill of Material 
Man n Machine Qty Material Unit Qty Tools Qty Safety Gear Qty Facilities Qty
Plastic Cut-
JCB- 3DX (hrs) 40 Perforator Ton 1.2 5 Safety jackets 10 Saplings storage area
ter 1
Hitachi (hrs) 40 Jeevamrutha Liters 150.0 Pans 5 Helmets 10 Material Storage Area 1
Tipper (hrs) 40 Manure Ton 3.0 Buckets 5 Gloves 10 Wheel Barrow 2
Mandays (no) 125 Cocopeat Ton 0.0 Trowel 5 Gumboots 10 Safety Fencing(if req) 2

24
    Mulch Ton 1.00 Hoe 5        
Gardening
    Saplings Numbers 600.0 4      
Fork/Rake  
    Support sticks Numbers 600.0 Dustbins 0        
    Pegs Numbers 40.0            
    Support stick rope Meters 200.0            
    Lime Stone Powder Kg 30.0            
    Tying rope Meters 300.0            
    Stickers for saplings Numbers 30.0            
Cost Estimation              
Item Unit Per Sq Mtr Unit Unit Cost Unit Qty Per day Per day cost Total Unit Qty Total Cost
Man n Machine             40,000
JCB- 3DX 0.2 Hours 0 8 0 40 0
Hitachi 0.2 Hours 0 8 0 40 0
Tipper 0.2 Hours 0 8 0 40 0
Manpower 0.625 Mandays 320 25 8,000 125 40,000
 Material- Consumables             83,890
Perforator 0.006 Ton 20,000 0.2 4,800 1.20 24,000
Jeevamrutha 0.75 Liters 35 30.0 1,050 150.00 5,250
Manure 0.015 Ton 10,000 0.6 6,000 3.00 30,000
Coco-peat 0 Ton   0.0 0 0.00 0
Mulch 0.005 Ton 5,000 0.2 1,000 1.00 5,000
Saplings 3 Numbers 30 120 3,600 600.00 18,000
Support Sticks 3 Numbers 1 120 120 600.00 600
Pegs 0.2 Numbers 3 8 24 40.00 120
Support stick rope 1 Meters 1 40.0 40 200.00 200
Lime Stone Powder 0.15 Kg 8 6.0 48 30.00 240
Tying rope for mulch 1.5 Meters 2 60.0 90 300.00 450
Stickers for saplings 0.15 Numbers 1.000 6 6 30.00 30
Cost Estimation 
Item Per Sq Mtr Unit Quantity Total Cost
Material-Tools and Equipments           4,830

25
Plastic Cutter   0.025 Numbers 20 5 100
Pans   0.025 Numbers 300 5 1,500
Buckets   0.025 Numbers 300 5 1,500
Trowel   0.025 Numbers 100 5 500
Hoe   0.025 Numbers 150 5 750
Gardening Fork/Rake   0.02 Numbers 120 4 480
Safety Gear           12,700
Safety jackets   0.05 Numbers 700 10 7,000
Helmets   0.05 Numbers   10 0
Gloves   0.05 Numbers 120 10 1,200
Gumboots   0.05 Numbers 450 10 4,500
Facilities-Fixed           40,000
Saplings storage area   0.005 Number   1 0
Material Storage Area   0.005 Number   1 0
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Wheel Barrow   0.01 Numbers   2 0

Safety Fencing   0.01 Numbers 20000 2 40,000
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

EXECUTION
I. MATERIAL MIXING
WHAT
The materials (perforator, water retainer, nourishment material and biomass) have to be thoroughly
mixed.
WHY
The 3/4 materials must be uniformly mixed into the soil. For this, the materials should be first
mixed separately with each other.
WHO
You will require an earthmover (J CB/Hitachi etc.) along with laborers to do the material mixing.
WHEN
Project Execution Stage.
HOW
• Ensure that the materials are mixed in the exact same ratios as what has been fixed
initially i.e. for every 100 square meter of forest: Example:
• Mixing should be done to achieve consistency and uniformity i.e. if you fill up a small
bowl with the mixed material, you should be able to see all the 3 materials.
• We should make sure that the material does not have clumps.

Plant density (no. of Water retention Perforation Nourishment

saplings per square material (Kg) material(Kg) material(Kg)
meter)
3 700 700 600

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

II. EARTH WORK AND MOUND MAKING

WHAT
We need to prepare mounds on which the plantation will happen. Mound making happens after
preparing the earth for plantation.
WHY
Plantation done in the Miyawaki method is very different from conventionalplantations. Unlike
conventional plantations where individual pits are dug up for each sapling to be
planted, in the Miyawaki method, one massive mound is created for all the saplings to be planted
together on it.
WHO
You will require an earthmover or excavator such as a J CB/Hitachi/Deere, along with laborers.
WHEN
Project Execution Stage
HOW
Follow the steps given below:
Step 1 – Using an earthmoving machine, dig out all the earth up to a depth of 1 meter. Work on
100 square meters of forest at a time.
Step 2- Using the machinery, put half the earth/soil back into the pit/trench created. Ensure that
once it is put back into the pit, the soil is spread out uniformly.
(These two steps ensure that the soil becomes soft and loose)
Step 3 – From the biomass mixture, put half the quantity into the pit created
Step 4 – Manually spread out the biomass on top of the soil
Step 5 – Thoroughly mix the biomass with the soil beneath using the machine
Step 6 – Using the machine, put the remaining soil back into the pit. Ensure that once it is put
back into the pit, the soil is spread out uniformly.
Step 7 – Put the remaining biomass on top of this soil
Step 8 - Manually spread out the biomass.
Step 9 - Thoroughly mix the biomass with the soil beneath using the machine
Step 10 – Once thoroughly mixed, give it the shape of a mound. Mound making will be fairly
simple because during this entire process, the soil becomes very loose. Thus it occupies more
space in its loose form and mound making becomes easier.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Above: Excavation or 1 meter trench digging, dumping back half the soil
spreading half of the biomass, then followed by mixing

Above: Dumping remaining half of the soil into the pit and
spreading the remaining biomass on top of the soil

Above: Final round of mixing, leveling and mound making.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

III. PLANTATION
WHAT
Mound making is immediately followed by plantation
WHY
Key aspect of forest creation
WHO
Volunteers/Laborers
WHEN
Execution stage
HOW
The following steps need to be followed:
Step 1: Place the plants on the mound so as to create a multi layered forest. For this, try to group
plants belonging to different layers in each square meter. For e.g.
• Sub Tree, Shrub, Tree
• Tree, Shrub, Canopy
• Sub tree, Shrub, Canopy,
• Sub Tree, Tree, Canopy
• Tree, Sub Tree, Tree
• Sub Tree, Canopy, Sub Tree
Note:
• Try as far as possible not to place 2 trees of the same kind next to each other.
• The combinations or groups are completely dependent on species that have been selected
and the number of trees allocated to each layer.
• Do not follow a pattern when placing trees on the mound. Let the trees follow a random
zigzag pattern.
• This is a natural forest w here some species will dominate the others. It is healthy
competition. Hence, it is absolutely fine if you are unable to have trees belonging to 3
different layers in each group. After a point you will run out of certain species and will
end up having 2 species belonging to the same layer close to each other, or for that
matter even the same species next to each other. Tree positioning on the mound can
only be controlled to a certain extent. Nonetheless it is an important exercise.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Above: Sapling arrangement on the mound

Step 2: Use a trowel or a hoe to dig a small pit on the mound. The pit should be only slightly
bigger than bag size of the plant. Put the plant in the pit to check if the root bag sits comfortably
in it.
Step 3: Dip the root bag in a bucket of water. Allow the air bubbles to come out of the bag, wait
till entire air is drained out.
Step 4: Cut the cover of the root bag/pouch. Only cut the cover, do not cut into the soil
Step 5: Place one hand under the root ball while holding the stem with the other. Place the plant
into the pit without removing your hand from the bottom. Fill the pit with the soil outside. The
soil should be leveled gently around the stem of the plant. Hold the plant from the stem and gently
remove your hand from the bottom of the plant. Once leveled, do not press the soil. In other
words, we need to ensure that the soil is not compacted by hand and is left loose around the plant.
NOTE: Ensure that at any given point in time, there are no more than 8-10 people on the mound.
The idea is to plant on loose soil. Mixing and mound making are important to aerate the soil.
Minimum footprint on the mound will ensure minimum compaction.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

1. Check that the root ball or root bag of your plant

sits comfortably in the pit. Use the small garden hole
to deepen or widen the pit if necessary.

2. Dip the root ball or root bag in the bucket of water. Allow air bubbles to
come out of the bag and wait until air is completely drained out.

3. If root ball is still wrapped, cut the cover and

remove the wrapper but take care to not cut into the
soil.

4. Carefully place one hand under the root ball while gently holding
the stem with the other. Place the plant into the pit without removing
your hand from the bottom. Fill the pit with the soil around. The soil
should be leveled gently around the stem of the plant. Steady the plant
by holding on to the stem and slowly remove your hand from the
bottom of the plant. Once leveled, do not press or compact the soil.

5. Water your plant and take a photo!

To ensure minimal compaction of

the soil, please refrain from stepping
on the mound unless necessary.
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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

SOP – SAPLING ARRANGEMENT

In the Miyawaki method of forest creation, there are no pre-planned planting positions. The goal
is to achieve the following:
1. Selection of the right species.
2. Fixing the correct ratio for each specie, carefully balancing the different forest layers and
ensuring that our forest has all the desired qualities of a natural forest.
3. Mix up the species and plant them "randomly" so as to createa dense multi layered forest.
The random sapling arrangement is important to ensure that a "forest" gets created in the truest
sense. This ensures natural competition, cooperation and selection.
The simplest definition of the Miyawaki Method, by the book, is - random and dense plantation
of native tree species.
The forest is created in units of 100 square meters. Each 100 square meter patch is referred to as
a mound. Every new mound has all the species selected, according to the ratios fixed. However,
the arrangement needs to keep changing. Thus, if Mango (Mangifera Indica) is one of the species,
and 6 individual mango saplings are to be planted per mound, then the position of Mango on
every new mound should be different.
Once the soil is prepared, the saplings are mixed and randomly arranged to ensure that all the
forest layers get distributed throughout the mound. Thus, a good distribution of layers will look
something like this:
In the image alongside, T refers to Tree, ST refers to Sub Tree, C refers to Canopy and S refers
to Shrub For the sake of being more visual, it looks like this:
In the graphic alongside, every distinct colored dot denotes a different forest layer
As thumb rules: For the sake of being more visual, it looks like this:
1. We maintain a distance of 60 cm between saplings, for as long as possible. As the mound
starts getting filled up, at many places the distance will be less:
2. The sapling arrangement should look more zig-zag than linear.
3. We should try not to place two saplings of the same type next to each other. E.g. Neem
(Azadirachta indica) next to a Neem . However, sometimes such situations are not
avoidable, since the density is high. In such situations, one of the Neems will naturally
dominate the other.
4. At many places on the mound, two saplings of the same layer might fall next to each other.
Such clashes are natural, since we are only working with 4 layers. Let’s not forget that
the layers are not equal in proportion. For e.g. percentage-wise in most places, Tree>Sub
Tree>Canopy>Shrubs
Before plantation, sapling spreading on every mound looks like this:

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

33
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

IV. SUPPORTING THE PLANTS WITH STICKS

WHAT
Several newly planted saplings will need support during the initial months
WHY
Once planted, the saplings should not droop or bend. In order to keep them upright while their
roots get a hold on the soil, we need support sticks and strings to tie the plants.
WHO
Volunteers/Laborers
WHEN
Post plantation
HOW
1. The plant roots should not get damaged while inserting the sticks into the soil.
2. Maintain a very small yet safe distance between the plant stem and the stick. 2) Sticks
being inserted should match with the height of the sapling i.e.
• For small (1 foot – 1 meter) plants, insert 1 meter long bamboo sticks.
• For taller plants (>1 meter), insert 2-2.5 meter long bamboo sticks. These should be
slightly thicker
3. Use only bamboo sticks and jute strings. Everything used inside the forest should be natural
and biodegradable 4) For every 100 square meters i.e. 300 saplings we should have at
least 150 sticks. In other words you will end up putting support sticks with every alternate
plant. 5) Ensure you have thin jute strings to tie the support sticks to the stems. You will
roughly need 2 kgs for every 100 square meter.

Above: Plantation and mulching Bamboo Pegs nailed into the ground
34
 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

V. MULCHING
WHAT
Mulching is the process of covering the soil with a suitable material. This is to be done as soon
as the plantation completes.
WHY
The mulch insulates and protects the soil. It prevents sunlight from falling directly on the soil.
This is especially important for the first 6-8 months,as the plants are young. Direct sunlight on
the soil will make it dry and make the conditions difficult for the young saplings. It also plays a
huge role in preventing the water from evaporating.
WHO
Volunteers/Laborers
WHEN
Post plantation
HOW
• The mulch should be evenly laid out
• The mulching material should not fall on the saplings. It should only cover the soil
• The layer of mulch should be thick (5-7 inches)
• Once the mulching material has been laid out, it should be tied down to the ground
using a rope. Here’s how: - Nail bamboo pegs around the forest, at the periphery. - Use
a rope to tie the pegs to each other, pressing down upon the mulch and keeping it intact.
This will prevent the mulch from flying around - Hammer 30 pegs around every 100
square meter mound. These should be 1.5-2 feet in length and pointed at one end so
that they can be hammered into the ground. - For every mound you will require 3-4 kgs
of jute rope for tying

Rope tied to the pegs to hold the mulch down Above: Mulch and Support Sticks
35
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Thus, when the forest grows, it looks as wild and dense as any
natural forest. Here are some photographs of our grown forests:

36
 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

VI. FIRST WATERING

WHAT
Once the forest has been created, the forest needs to be watered well enough.
WHY
Water is an essential requirement. The moment a forest gets created, the saplings need to be
watered abundantly.
WHO
Laborers/volunteers or the maintenance staff
WHEN
Post forest creation and mulching
HOW
As mentioned earlier, the plants need to be watered using a hosepipe with a shower. The first
time, the forest needs to be watered for 1 hour. The minimum water requirement is 5 liters per
square meter i.e. 500 liters per 100 square meters of forest per day.
MONITORING
WHAT
Once a forest has been created, monitoring it is an important exercise that helps in assessing the
actual results.
WHY
The exercise of monitoring helps in finding out the actual growth and survival data. This helps
us assess the success or failure of a forest. It also helps in determining if the result targeted has
been achieved. Subsequently, this data will be used in deliberating upon changes required to
improve the results of forests to be created in the future.
WHO
The caretakers of the forest, the owners or volunteers
WHEN
The frequency of monitoring can be:
• Once a month or Once every two months
The exercise should be conducted for the first 8 to 12 months.
HOW
Survival – This involves counting the number of saplings that survive. A sapling might shed all
or some of its leaves. However this does not mean that it’s dead. A dead ‘looking’ sapling might
be very much alive. The best way to check for survival is by conducting the scratch/scrape test:

37
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

• With a small knife or your thumbnail, gently scratch the outer/bark layer of the plant a
few inches above the soil.
• If you find wet tissue beneath the bark layer, with a slight greenish hue, then this is a
living tissue and indicates survival.
• If the layer beneath is dry, brittle and brown, then it indicates that the tree has failed to
live.
• Refer to the following images:
Once the number of trees surviving per patch (per 100 square meters) has been counted, the
consolidated data or species wise data can be recorded.
Growth- In order the measure the overall growth of the forest, selected species need to be marked
and measured on the date fixed (monthly or bi-monthly). Usually, one sapling each from 50%
of the species planted is marked for measurement. We can use different methods to mark the
selected species. One of the methods is to use a round plastic pipe with a number, name of specie
and plantation date. For e.g.: Measure up to the highest "point" or the highest tip, which could
either, be stalk or leaf. Please refer to these images for reference:
Tree Height (This is for big trees. We are only concerned with the image here and not the formula)

Living tissue:

Dead tissue:
38
 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

A growth monitoring sheet looks like the following:

  MONTHLY GROWTH MONITORING CHART (WARGAL FARM) Height in ft.in
S.No. Botanical Name 2-Oct 2-Nov
1 Psidium guajava 2 2
2 Thespesia populnea  4.3 4.4
3 Artocarpus heterophyllus    2.3 2.7
4 Ficus religiosa 3.3 4.2
5 Tectona grandis 2.1 2.3
6 Azadirachta indica 3.6 3.7
7 Syzygium cumini  3.2 3.2
8 Dalbergia sissoo    5.8 5.8
9 Millingtonia hortensis 2.1 2.7
10 Sterculia foetida  6.2 6.5
11 Alstonia scholaris 3.7 3.9
12 Areca catechu 2.3 2.5
13 Lagerstroemia Indica 2.3 2.3
14 Pongamia pinnata (P. Glabra) 4 4
15 Butea Monosperma 1 1
16 Terminalia catappa    1.1 2.4
17 Nerium oleander 2.9 3.8
18 Phyllanthus Emblica 4 4.4
19 Ficus benghalensis 1.1 2.5
20 Ficus Carica 3.3 3.4
21 Saraca indica, Saraca asoca 2.8 2.9
22 Murraya koenigii 1.1 1.2
23 Cassia javanica     3.1 4.9
24 Anthocephalus cadamba, Anthocephalus indicus 3 3.7
25 Nyctanthes arbor-tristis 1 1.8
26 Punica granatum 1.7 2.3
27 Calophyllum inophyllum  2.7 2.9
28 Terminalia arjuna 5.7 5.8
29 Aegle marmelos    2.1 2.3
30 Caryota Urens 3.9 4.6
31 Mangifera Indica 4.1 4.5
32 Santalum album 2.4 2.6
33 Feronia elephantum, Feronia limonia   .5 1
34 Madhuca longifolia var. longifolia     5.9 6.2

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

Maintenance Instructions:-
1) Regular watering: This is absolutely essential to ensure forest health and survival. Watering
should be done once in a day, either early morning or late evening, but not during the day time.

Watering without shower

(at the end of the pipe).

Watering with water cannon.

Watering with hose pipe and shower (at the end of the pipe).
Only water the forest using a shower at the end of the pipe. Strong water force could be
detrimental to plant health and soil stability. If the forest is watered excessively (accidentally
or others wise), then it should be given 1-2 days to dry before the next watering. Watering
is to be done to ensure maintenance of soil moisture. The soil should notbecome completely
dry.
40
 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

2) De-weeding: De-weeding simply involves not allowing anything else to grow in the forest,
apart from what we have planted. Thus, grass and weeds need to be kept out. We must keep the
forest weed -free for the first 2-3 years. As soon as the forest starts growing, weed growth too
will stop. However, grasses and weeds can potentially kill the young saplings in the forest.

Young forest when de-weeding De-weeding to be done regularly by

has not been done. workers/volunteers.

Young forest when de-weeding

has been properly done.
41
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

3) Ensure plants are not under any stress: They should not get buried under the mulch and they
should be kept straight with the help of their respective support sticks.

Plant buried under the mulch.

Plant stem has been loosely tied to their

support stick.
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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

4) Plant stems should only be loosely tied to their support sticks else they get choked.

Plant has been very tightly tied to its Choked plant stem.
support stick.

Plant stem loosely/perfectly tied

to its support stick.
43
Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

5) Keep the forest clean: No litter of any inorganic form (plastic, paper etc.) should be left in the
forest.

Dirty forest. Clean forest.

6) Drainage: Water should not get accumulated anywhere in the forest. Thus, one should check
for any possible water pipeline leakages etc. Proper drainage system should be maintained.

Drainage system has been maintained in

the forest.
44
 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

7) Do not disturb the plantation in any way: Some plants will show initial signs of shock, such
as leaves and stems drying out. No re-planting or intervention is required at this stage. Mortality
rate will be checked after at least 3-4 months after planting. Usual mortality rate is anywhere
between 2-5 percent. If a lot of the planted species are deciduous, they will shed their leaves and
it is not a cause for concern.

8) Do Not use any chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides or inorganic fertilizers: The forest is
well equipped to take care of itself. If you notice any pests, they too should be left undisturbed.
The forest will slowly build its own mechanism to keep itself healthy.

On this leaf we can notice some pests. They should be left undisturbed.
This is seasonal and will go on its own.
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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

9) Always keep the forest floor covered with a thick layer of mulch: The mulching done during
forest creation needs to be maintained for at least one year. The forest floor/soil needs to be
re-mulched with time. Dry uncovered soil is detrimental to the forest health.

Uncovered soil. Perfectly mulched soil.

10) Support sticks: As the trees grow taller, longer support sticks might be required. If the main
shoot of a tree bends, then it tends to get weak.

Taller plants supported by taller sticks.

Main shoot of the tree has bent.

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 Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

11. Protect the Mounds and plants: Insert iron/wooden rods at the 4 corners of each mound, so
that the watering pipe does not drag around and damage the plants.

Pipe dragging over the mound. Notice the wooden sticks at the corners.

12. NEVER create raised beds to accumulate water in the forest. Stagnant water will kill plant
roots.

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Miyawaki’s Rapid Afforestation

13. NEVER cut or prune even a single stem in the forest. Natural forests are never pruned. If any
cutting or pruning is done, the forest will become weaker. Dr.Miyawaki says, "No maintenance
is the best maintenance. If a forest requires maintenance after the first 2-3 years then it's a fake
forest."

14. NEVER remove the mulch or the forest's organic matter (leaves, flowers, twigs, seeds, wood,
stems) from the forest floor. If organic matteris removed and the soil is exposed, it will kill good
soil microbiology and degrade the forest.

Organic matter is removed Ideal forest floor.

from the forest floor.
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Printed courtesy