In spring of 2024, The Willows Park welcomed an extraordinary addition to its landscape in the form of a new Miyawaki forest; a dense, fast-growing “mini forest” planted entirely with native trees and shrubs. An exciting step forward in sustainability, this unique and powerful approach to reforestation creates long-lasting resilience against climate challenges and makes the most of even small or underutilized plots of land. The new Miyawaki forest was implemented in collaboration with the Radnor Township Shade Tree Commission, the Township’s Arborist, John Rockwell Hosbach of Rockwell Associates, and a robust source of volunteers that will serve Radnor Township for generations to come.
What is a Miyawaki Forest?
Named after Japanese ecologist and botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki (1928-2021), this reforestation method is designed to restore native ecosystems quickly and effectively. By planting a layered and dense mix of carefully selected native trees and shrubs, Miyawaki forests
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grow up to ten times faster
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become up to thirty times denser
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harbor far greater biodiversity than conventional plantings
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become self-sustaining/self-managing requiring less maintenance
Miyawaki Design for the Willows Park
The Miyawaki method was applied with careful planning and community collaboration. Native species suited to Southeastern Pennsylvania’s ecology were planted closely together in a layered design, mimicking natural forest layers:
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canopy trees for shade and long-term stability
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understory trees to support diversity and provide seasonal color
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shrubs and groundcover to enrich soil health, protect roots, and attract pollinators
Why It Matters for Radnor Township
The Miyawaki forest at The Willows is more than just a grove of trees; it is a model of sustainable ecological stewardship offering benefits including:
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improved air quality and carbon sequestration
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biodiverse habitats for birds, insects, and small mammals
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enriched soil and improved stormwater absorption
Over time, this small forest will mature into a thriving ecosystem, demonstrating how thoughtful restoration can strengthen both community and environment, and providing a “living classroom” to learn about native ecology.
Looking Ahead
The Willows Park Miyawaki forest represents a shared investment in a greener, healthier future. Visitors are encouraged to walk around the site, observe the progression of the young plantings, and imagine the dense woodland that will soon stand tall. With ongoing care and support, this forest will become a cherished feature of the park, a legacy of renewal and resilience for Radnor Township.
