Can You Plant a Tree on Mount Washington?

Mount Washington, located in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, with an elevation of 6,288 feet. The harsh climate and rugged terrain make it a challenging place to grow plants, but is it possible to plant a tree on Mount Washington? The answer is yes, but with certain conditions.

Climate on Mount Washington

The weather on Mount Washington is notoriously brutal. The peak experiences incredibly strong winds, with the highest recorded gust reaching a whopping 231 miles per hour in 1934. The temperature can also drop incredibly low, with the coldest temperature on record being -50°F in 1934. The combination of high winds and cold temperatures means that vegetation struggles to survive.

Challenges of Planting Trees on Mount Washington

The biggest challenge of planting trees on Mount Washington is ensuring that they can survive in the harsh conditions. The soil is shallow and rocky, with little organic matter, so trees struggle to establish roots. The winds are also a concern, as they can uproot trees or break branches. Lastly, avalanche terrain and rockfall add to the challenge of finding a suitable planting location.

The Success of Alpine Planting

Despite these challenges, planting trees in the alpine zone of Mount Washington has been successful. The alpine zone is above the treeline, which means that there are no trees naturally present in the ecosystem. However, the alpine zone is home to dwarf shrubs, grasses, and small flowering plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions. In the 1960s, researchers began experimenting with planting trees in the alpine zone to see if they could survive. Over time, the trees have been successful in establishing roots, and some have even grown to be 20-30 feet tall.

Guidelines for Planting Trees on Mount Washington

If you’re interested in planting a tree on Mount Washington, there are guidelines you need to follow. The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) has a policy where planting trees is only allowed in the alpine zone, above the treeline. The tree has to be native to the area, and the AMC will provide guidance on where to plant the tree to ensure it has the best chance of survival. The AMC also requires that you obtain a permit before planting a tree.

Conclusion

Mount Washington is a beautiful and challenging place to grow vegetation. While planting trees in the alpine zone is possible, it requires careful consideration and compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Appalachian Mountain Club. If you’re up for the challenge, planting a tree on Mount Washington can be a rewarding experience that adds to the beauty of this iconic peak.