BED 5 - ADAPTABLE PLANTS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
For the plants that grow here, every day is a battle of survival against the harsh elements. They face salt-laden air, fierce winds, dramatic storms and bright sunlight reflected off the sea and cliffs. To survive here, plants need special characteristics. Climate change is affecting how plants grow and the behaviour of animals. Higher temperatures in Spring mean that flowers are blooming too early or late, which is impacting insect lifecycles. The migration patterns of birds are changing and their food sources are unreliable. Plants with the following characteristics have the most chance of surviving more harsh weather conditions. Storms and salt winds: very low-lying mats, hairy leaves to lessen evaporation from surface, rosette formation to protect their growing tips, thick cuticles to resist wind damage, narrow leaves to prevent leaf damage. Heat and drought: succulents to conserve water Deep roots to anchor plants to the ground and reach deep soil water Having short life cycles to grow and produce seeds in good weather
