The first Miyawaki planting in Serbia carried out in Aleksandrovo as part of the plant a tree project

As part of the Plant A Tree project, initiated by WMG (Wireless Media Group), the first Miyawaki planting in Serbia was carried out in Aleksandrovo near Nova Crnja, where 300 saplings were planted, marking an important step forward for the project in the application of modern and science-based greening models.

The Miyawaki model represents an innovative afforestation approach that enables the faster development of dense, native and resilient forest communities. By planting a large number of different plant species in a small area, a stable and self-sustaining ecosystem is created, contributing to the improvement of biodiversity and the creation of more resilient green spaces.

“The Miyawaki concept represents a new approach in Vojvodina and differs from classical forestry, which involves the establishment and regeneration of forests over large areas. Here, we are talking about smaller areas, from 20 to 200 square metres, in which a large number of saplings of different species are planted in a very small space. By combining tree and shrub species, a dense and diverse formation is created, which develops rapidly and fills the space from the ground layer to the canopy, creating a functional and stable ecosystem,” emphasized Slađana Dabić of PE Vojvodinašume.

With the implementation of this planting, the Plant A Tree project has continued its activities in the seventh round, in which the result of more than 1,200,000 saplings planted across Serbia has already been surpassed. The planting in Aleksandrovo also brought the application of a new afforestation approach, contributing to the development of more resilient and diverse ecosystems, along with stronger links between professionals, partners and the local community.

“The planting of the first Miyawaki stand in Serbia represents an important step forward in the development of the Plant A Tree project and confirms our commitment to introducing modern, science-based solutions in the field of greening. As a project that has already surpassed the result of more than 1,200,000 saplings planted, we are entering a phase in which we are further raising standards through innovation, quality and long-term sustainability. Such models make it possible for the impact of planting to be measured not only by the number of saplings, but also by the strength of the ecosystems we create and their importance for local communities,” said Anita Mikulić, Corporate Communications Manager at WMG.

A significant role in the implementation of the planting was played by cooperation with professional institutions and partners, which ensured that this model was applied in accordance with the best practices.

“One of the key advantages of Miyawaki, or micro-forests, compared with classical forestry is the large number of different species in a small area. With adequate soil preparation and the selection of native species, the development of a large number of plants in a limited space is made possible, leading to an increase in leaf mass and more intensive oxygen production, but also to the improvement of overall biodiversity,” stated Dr Martina Zorić of the Institute of Lowland Forestry and Environment.

In addition to the selection of species and soil preparation, technical solutions that ensure optimal growing conditions also play an important role in the development of the planting.
“The irrigation system was designed to provide optimal conditions for the rapid rooting of the large number of saplings planted using the Miyawaki method. Unlike standard systems, the focus is on the even distribution of water during the phase of intensive growth. The ‘drip irrigation’ system enables water to reach the plant’s roots directly, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing losses,” emphasized Milana Miljković, Marketing Manager at Savacoop.

Since 2019, the Plant A Tree project has continuously brought together institutions, experts, companies and citizens with the aim of improving the environment and raising awareness of the importance of preserving natural resources. During its rounds so far, the project has grown into one of the most significant environmental initiatives in Serbia, contributing through various activities to the creation of greener and more resilient local communities.

“At a time when we are spending more and more time indoors, it is important to create places that encourage time spent in nature and an active way of life. Such spaces are of particular importance for young people, as they provide an opportunity for gathering, learning and connecting with nature. We see investment in initiatives such as this as an investment in the health of individuals, but also in the development of a healthier and better-quality community,” concluded Tanja Vukmirović of the Vukan Foundation.

The Plant A Tree project was launched by WMG (Wireless Media Group), with the support of the WMG Foundation, The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management – The Forestry Administration, The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technological Development, PE Srbijašume, PE Vojvodinašume, The Serbian Reforestation Movement, The Serbian Chamber of Commerce, The Jevremovac Botanical Garden, Belgrade’s Faculty of Biology and Forestry, The School of Forestry in Kraljevo, The Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia, The Vojvodina Secretariat for Urban Planning and Environmental Protection and PUC Zelenilo Beograd. In this round, The Novi Sad Institute of Lowland Forestry and Environment, Savacoop, the Vukmirović company, and The Vukan Foundation joined in as well.