Sounds crazy? The Hotel Luise in Erlangen has done just that. In just a few square meters, the hotel created a microforest. A miniature version of a real forest that is densely planted, rich in species, and surprisingly effective. A small ecosystem has taken the place of the classic garden, and it contributes to the building’s natural cooling—an effect that has grown stronger over time.. BILD ©Hotel Luise / Kollage lf

How to become a woodruff

👉 Get started with just 5 square meters! The method is based on the concept developed by Japanese botanist Dr. Miyawaki. It involves planting at least three species of plants per square meter as densely as possible. This allows the trees to grow quickly and, after ten years, form an ecosystem with the same biodiversity, cooling capacity, and CO₂ storage as a 100-year-old forest.

Microforest at Hotel Luise in the center of Erlangen

• More than 100 native trees planted close together.
• Retention system and gravel pit for storing rainwater.
• Wood chips and straw used for insulation and moisture retention.
• Drip hose irrigation system using rainwater.
• The soil is stratified with loose topsoil, a sandy intermediate layer, and a loamy subsoil for optimal water retention.

Visit the website for more information.

A planting tip for your microforest:

Trees and plants native to your climate zone are ideal. In Germany, for example, suitable trees include English oak, hornbeam, field maple, wild cherry, and small-leaved lime. These can be supplemented with shrubs such as hazel, elderberry, and cornel cherry, as well as ground cover like woodruff and fern. Plant small, strong seedlings (60–100 cm) from a regional, sustainable tree nursery, if possible.

The Hotel Luise shows that forests begin with a decision to make the world greener and think about the future, not with land.