Rapid Native Woodland Development using the Miyawaki Method

Toll Wood Trust hopes to....

- Collect seeds during autumn months.
- Propogate whips and saplings to offer for local planting as well as build stocks for succession-planting inside the wood.

Creating woodland is very different from planting a single feature tree in a garden.

When planting an individual tree, you’re usually advised to leave generous space around the stem. This allows the canopy and roots to spread without competing with nearby plants or structures. Careful selection is essential — some species are vigorous and wide-spreading, while others are naturally compact. In smaller spaces, a shrub or small native tree is often the better long-term choice.

Traditional woodland planting advice often follows the same principle: plant young trees (whips or saplings) well spaced apart to allow room for growth.

The Miyawaki Method takes a very different approach.

What Is the Miyawaki Method?

Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this technique involves planting a diverse mix of native tree and shrub species at very high density — typically 3–5 trees per square metre.

Rather than spacing trees widely, they are planted close together, mimicking the way natural forests regenerate.

Why Plant So Densely?

High-density, mixed native planting delivers powerful ecological benefits:

Faster Growth at Any Scale

From small “pocket woodlands” filling an unused corner to larger landscape-scale projects, dense planting accelerates vertical growth. Trees compete for light, encouraging rapid upward development and quicker canopy formation.

By planting a rich mix of locally appropriate native species, you allow natural selection to determine which trees are best suited to your soil type, drainage conditions, and aspect. The woodland evolves naturally into a resilient ecosystem. Our list of native trees suitable for succession planting are listed in Appendix 4 of our Woodland Management Plan. The Trust has also identified a longer 'working list' to include non-native "Jack of All Trades", widely resilient to our conditions.

Climate Resilience

Diverse, densely planted woodland creates layered structure, healthier soils, and stronger ecological networks — giving it the best possible chance of adapting to climate change.

What Does It Require?

The Miyawaki method does involve greater upfront investment:

In return, you establish a self-sustaining woodland ecosystem far more quickly than with conventional spacing methods.

The key principle is simple:
Plant densely. Plant diversely. Then allow nature to lead the process.

If you’re considering creating a pocket woodland or larger native forest area, the Miyawaki method offers a fast, resilient, and ecologically rich solution.

A selection for further reading:-