2009 Alpine Garden at Mt. Washington - LOOK DOWN, not up

The White Mountains of New Hampshire have a unique ecology. Unlike almost every other mountain range in the Appalachian system of mountains, these mountains have a true alpine environment. No trees or tall flowers can grow on the tops of these mountains. Even common plants and trees such as fir trees, are either non-existent or dwarf. All the plants that grow in this environment have been modified by evolution in order to survive in a place that justifiably claims to have “The World’s Worst Weather”.

The entire alpine zone of Mt. Washington covers only about 35 square miles. A unique plant community grows within this small area. The flora that is found on the mountain is similar to the flora in Newfoundland, the coast of Labrador and western Greenland. There is growth, and plenty of it. Any hiker notices immediately that the rocks have colors on them. These are the lichens. Flowers are growing. Firs hide where the wind is not as strong. There is “green stuff” and plenty of it.

All these plants are perennials. They have flowers in the spring, grow during the summer, store up food for the winter and come out again during spring. Annuals, with seeds, cannot survive in the alpine zone. Only the perennials can find the niches in the rocks where they can root, grow and survive the harsh winter.

Bigelow sedge covers many areas in the presidential range. There are “meadows” of this sedge. Highland rush and other grass-like rushes and sedges grow in clumps which can spread out over a large area. The mountain can look like a huge lawn which has not been cut and is filled with too many rocks.

Like most areas, the colorful flowers are found in the spring. But there is always something growing during the summer in the alpine zone. Look down. You will find it.

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