The common perception of Iceland as a land devoid of trees, a vast expanse of lava fields and mossy tundra, is widespread. This view, however, simplifies a complex ecological story rooted in history and challenging environmental conditions. Whether trees grow in Iceland involves a balance of ancient human impact, unique geological factors, and modern conservation efforts. Understanding the landscape requires examining the historical and ecological reasons for the disappearance of dense forests and the ambitious projects aiming for their return.
The Great Deforestation
When the first Norse settlers arrived in Iceland around 874 AD, the island was covered by extensive woodlands. Historical evidence suggests that birch forest and scrub covered an estimated 25 to 40 percent of the land area. The dominant species was the native downy birch (Betula pubescens), which formed woodlands up to 15 meters tall in sheltered valleys.
The settlement era quickly led to deforestation. Settlers cut down the forests for constructing homes, producing charcoal for iron smelting, and creating fuel. Clearing land was also necessary to establish farming plots and grazing pastures for livestock.
The impact was compounded by the introduction of grazing animals, particularly sheep. These animals grazed freely, eating young birch saplings and preventing natural regeneration. This combination of clearing and continuous grazing ensured the ecosystem could not recover. By the mid-20th century, the island’s forest cover had fallen to less than one percent of its original extent.
Environmental Barriers to Growth
Beyond the historical impact of human activity, the physical environment of Iceland presents challenges to tree growth. Located just south of the Arctic Circle, the island has a sub-arctic climate characterized by cool summers and a short growing season, which restricts the growth rate of most tree species. Furthermore, constant, high-velocity winds sweep across the open landscape, creating wind shear that physically stunts the growth of exposed trees.
The island’s geology further complicates the establishment of deep-rooted forests, as the soil is largely composed of volcanic material. The dominant soil type, known as Andosols, is highly fragile and prone to severe erosion once the protective vegetative cover is removed. These soils are formed from basaltic tephra (volcanic ash) and lack the cohesion found in more typical soils.
This loose volcanic soil is easily carried away by strong winds and heavy rainfall, leading to desertification and a loss of nutrient-rich topsoil. The environment is also subject to intense freeze-thaw cycles, a process called cryoturbation, which physically moves and disrupts the soil, making it difficult for tree roots to establish stable, deep systems.
Iceland’s Modern Forestry Movement
Recognizing the ecological benefits of woodlands, Iceland has initiated a long-term national reforestation strategy. These efforts focus on land reclamation and carbon sequestration, aiming to restore ecosystem stability and combat climate change. The goal is to increase the island’s forest cover from its current level to five percent of the land area, with some projections aiming for 12 percent by 2100.
Because the native downy birch is slow-growing and struggles in exposed areas, modern programs rely on hardy introduced species better suited to the harsh conditions. Commonly planted non-native trees include Siberian Larch (Larix sibirica), Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis), and Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta), all selected for their ability to withstand cold and wind. These species are planted in sheltered valleys and areas with less severe wind exposure.
Forestry initiatives employ techniques to help young trees thrive, such as planting seedlings in clusters or in areas fenced off to protect them from grazing sheep. Trees are often planted with fertilizers to combat the nutrient deficiencies of the volcanic soils, which can immobilize elements like phosphorus. These efforts are slowly but steadily regreening the landscape, transforming previously barren areas into productive woodlands.