At Miami Ironside, sustainability isnāt just an aspirationāitās a practice. Weāve already implemented the Miyawaki method to create our very own Micro Woods: a dense, fast-growing native forest thatās transforming our urban environment into a rich, self-sustaining ecosystem.
What Is the Miyawaki Method?
Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this method regenerates native forest ecosystems by planting a wide variety of indigenous trees and shrubs close together in small urban plots. The result? A vibrant, multi-layered forest that grows 10x faster, is 30x denser, and becomes maintenance-free after three years.
At Ironside, our Micro Woods exemplifies this approach. What began as compact, underutilized land now thrives with biodiversityāsupporting pollinators, improving soil quality, and offering much-needed canopy cover in the Miami heat.
Why It Matters Here
Our Micro Woods is not a conceptāitās a living reality. Year after year, we expand our planting efforts, using native species that regenerate the land and protect our local ecology. Itās part of our role as a pollinator corridor, connecting green spaces and allowing butterflies, bees, and birds to move freely through the urban landscape.
By practicing the Miyawaki method, we actively contribute to:
š± Rebuilding native habitats on formerly degraded land
š¬ļø Improving air quality and reducing heat island effects in our district
š§ Enhancing soil and water retention, adding resilience to extreme weather
š Creating rich habitat for biodiversity, vital to ecosystem health
š Serving as a living classroom for sustainability education
Growing Together: The Longevity District in Action
The Micro Woods reflects our values of adaptive reuse, regenerative design, and urban wellness. Itās not just a green spaceāitās an invitation. Whether youāre an artist, entrepreneur, neighbor, or nature lover, youāre part of this ecosystem.
We host seasonal planting days, offer tours of the Micro Woods, and provide hands-on learning for all ages. Schools, community groups, and sustainability-minded partners are always welcome.
Get Involved šæ
The forest is already growingābut the movement is just beginning.
Want to walk through the Micro Woods? Learn about native species? Join our next planting day?
Sign up for updates and come experience how Ironside is modeling the future of green cities, one tree at a time.