Agroforestry in the Miyawaki Method
Recently we planted about 300 saplings, courtesy — the forest department. It included மலை வேம்பு / Malai Vembu (Melia dubia), தேக்கு / Teak (Tectona grandis), நெல்லி / Amla / Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), கொய்யா / Guava (Psidium guajava) and Black Plum (Syzygium cumini).
We decided to try the Miyawaki forestry method to create a farm forest and boost nature.
Initially we prepared the land for planting as per Miyawaki method which mandates the following:
● digging a deep pit & filling it with compost materials,
● planting saplings at 60 cm / 2 feet intervals (closer than is usual), and
● fully immersing the roots in water prior to planting.
In Miyawaki Methodology plants supposedly grow faster because of the space and compost materials given to the soil. It creates a green cover everywhere, and within a few years there is a forest.
A snail sneaked in to join our team in the much refreshing activity!
It was a good opportunity for us — to bond with one another as a team, plant a few trees, and create a forest. There is also the long-term benefit of afforestation which would result in more rainfall and a better natural environment around us.