Life between sandstone and concrete
If plants could decide for themselves where to grow and thrive, stairs would certainly not be on their shortlist.
However, they usually have little or no influence over where wind, rain, or other circumstances carry their seeds.
Yet stairs only appear hostile to life at first glance.
Sandstone or concrete steps can store water to a limited extent. Even during hot summer weeks, the small cracks often remain surprisingly moist. Organic material also collects there and serves as a source of nutrients.
If the stairs are in front of or next to a house, they can have a cooling effect in summer and a warming effect in winter.
Finally, the competitive pressure is somewhat lower. Where few other plants grow, those that do have a better chance of thriving and multiplying.
Fast-growing and robust plants that can withstand the occasional kick have the best chances of survival in the biotope on steps.
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