Our Tiny Forest 

Our Earthwatch Tiny Forest was planted in the spring of 2021 and is the first of many in Birmingham.

• The Tiny Forest follows a Japanese tree planting method by botantist, Dr Akira Miyawaki.

• It is a very small, densely planted forest which can grow 10 times faster than a normal forest - forming a multi-layered ecosystem. 

• The Tiny Forest includes a mix of native trees such as oak, birch, willow, rowan, alder, and hawthorn.

• Because of climate disruption, some of our native species such as the English oak, may not survive here in the future so our Tiny Forest also includes Spanish oak to see if these trees grow better here as the climate gets warmer.

• Overtime it will create a woodland rich in wildlife such as butterflies, birds, bees, bugs and other insects.

• It is looked after by ‘Tree Keepers’, local residents who receive training from Earthwatch and volunteer their time to care for the trees.

• Trees capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and give out oxygen which helps us to breathe.

• They also help with urban cooling by providing shade during times of increased temperature.

• Trees help prevent flooding by absorbing water and catching rainfall, slowing down surface water run-off.

• The Tiny Forest helps provide much needed homes for urban wildlife.

• It is a Community Science project. Volunteers gather science monitoring data and send it to the Earthwatch science team for analysis.

• Engagement with the Tiny Forest provides opportunities for learning, connection with nature and improved well-being.