Are Frost Boils Important for the Recruitment of Arctic-Alpine Plants?

Abstract

To determine if canopy gaps offer “safe sites” for recruitment and persistence of arctic-alpine plants, we compared seedling densities in frost boils and closed vegetation, and examined persistence of Diapensia lapponica within frost boils. Seedling density was greater within frost boils, and D. lapponica numbers increased in resurveyed frost boils, suggesting persistence. Lower seed bank size combined with higher seedling numbers confirmed that frost boils represent favorable sites for germination.