 This substantially extends the growing season.In addition, a combination of the insulating properties of past growth under the surface of the cushion plants and the peaty soils in which they grow prevents temperatures around the roots dropping below -1 °C, which stops the roots from freezing (Gibson, 1988).Surrounding plants species have adapted to not only benefit, but rely on these conditions the cushion plants provide in order to survive and grow, and are restricted to habitats in which cushions are present.