snow-patch vegetation In tundra and to a lesser extent in alpine environments, late-melting snow patches exert a marked influence on the vegetation. Vegetation that occurs beneath the small snow patches and the peripheral parts of large ones is protected from the rigours of winter, but as the snow melts comparatively early in the summer months, the vegetation is also able to capitalize on most of the growing season: in these situations, therefore, it is rather luxuriant. Conversely, the larger snow patches, which melt well into or towards the end of the short growing season, tend greatly to restrict the development of vegetation.

snow-patch vegetation In tundra, and to a lesser extent in alpine environments, late-melting snow patches exert a marked influence on the vegetation. Vegetation that occurs beneath the small snow patches and the peripheral parts of large ones is protected from the rigours of winter, but as the snow melts comparatively early in the summer months, the vegetation is also able to capitalize on most of the growing season: in these situations, therefore, it is rather luxuriant. Conversely, the larger snow patches, which melt well into or towards the end of the short growing season, tend greatly to restrict the development of vegetation.