Probably the best way to really best way to start a forest is planting a diverse combo of pioneer trees; Box Elders,Maples, and Cottonwood come to mind.
Since these pioneer trees grow quickly they'll provide plenty of cover for birds and butterflies which lay eggs[butterflies] which turn into caterpillers which provide food for the birds.
Once the blue jays start propagating berry trees; Like dogwoods and serviceberry you'll have forest..Understory and all
Using birds to plant your forest
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