How do prairie plants survive a fire?
The growing points (meristems) of many prairie grasses and flowers are below ground and this feature protects them from both drought and fire. The previous year’s stems and leaves provide fuel for the fire, while the growing point remains cool underground. During a fast-moving grass fire, the soil surface can reach 680oC, while only 1 cm below, no temperature changes are detected. Unlike prairies and savannas, meadows are not fire-dependent and do not benefit from burns. Meadows of Queen Anne’s lace, giant ragweed, Canada thistle and common milkweed grow where the soil has recently been disturbed or tilled. How does fire help prairie? A fast-moving grass fire helps the prairie in many ways. Firstly, fire kills plants that are not specifically adapted to tolerate burning. These plants have their meristems above ground. Shrub and tree seedlings and other non-prairie weeds are kept out by regular burns. The burning and elimination of the standing dead plant material is another important f
