The tundra is characterized by its cold, harsh climate and short growing seasons, which are two primary reasons it is treeless. The extreme cold, especially during winter, prevents many types of trees from surviving. Trees require a certain amount of warmth and a longer growing season to grow and thrive, which the tundra does not provide.
Additionally, the permafrost, a layer of permanently frozen soil beneath the surface, poses a significant barrier to root growth. Trees need deep roots to anchor themselves and access nutrients, but the frozen ground limits this ability. As a result, the tundra is primarily home to low-growing plants like mosses, lichens, and small shrubs that can tolerate the challenging conditions.
Another factor contributing to the scarcity of trees is the short summer period, which lasts only a few weeks. During this time, the landscape briefly thaws, allowing for some plant growth. However, the growing season is insufficient for trees to reach maturity, leading to a vegetation community dominated by smaller, hardier plants that can quickly adapt to the environment.