radishes in late summer to prepare the site for a spring forest planting the following year. When ready, a mix of native climax trees, sub-trees and shrubs are laid out at a density of three plants per square meter.
n fertility and irrigation. In the first two years, trees are irrigated and heavily mulched so as to best reduce weed competition from young seedlings. In some trials, sheep’ s wool is an excellent amendment. Some swear by straw or coconut coir. Some use compost, biochar, or leaf mold. You may also consider twice-overwintered wood chips.
Photo: SUGi Project
pathogenic fungal diseases to managed areas. Take care not to add forest too close to your domicile, as that could cause issues down the road.
n Site preparation. For successful establishment, the method must be observed carefully. The desired forest plot must be de-compacted down to one meter and cleared of weeds. Some achieve this through solarization or“ stale-seedbed” technique using repurposed billboard material to kill competition in the top soil layer. Some remove the turf layer mechanically. An auger or broadfork can quickly de-compact the soil, creating small pockets of air that allow roots to move through soil particles easier. If you wish to use less intrusive means, you can sow a cover crop of daikon n Species selection. Depending on your goals, you may select a mix for tree nuts, seasonal color, or pollinator habitat. A sample mix might include 75 % canopy species such as Black Locust, Willows, Maples, Oaks, Virginia Pines, Loblolly Pines, and Tulip Poplar. Shrub species such as American Hazelnut, Spicebush, Meadowsweet, Vibernums, or Black Chokeberry may constitute 12-15 % of the mix. And sub-trees such as Dogwood, Serviceberry, American Plum, and Redbud make up around 9 % of the total. Try bramble fruits and other dappled-light lovers nearest the edges.
n observation. Take note of which trees are stressed and which are thriving. In most trials, germination and success rates are around 85- 90 %. You may also keep track of fruit and nut production, should you plant a shelterbelt style mini-forest with a south-facing aspect.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Heritage Mini-Forest in the heart of London has a 92 % survival rate and captures 10,560 kg of carbon each year. It is composed of 630 trees, 77 unique species, in an area of just 240 square meters, or around 2,600 square feet.
plenty I autumn harvest 2026 17