Traveling still further south, we find what is called the deciduous forest biome. These forests cover much of the Eastern United States and most of Europe. In order for a deciduous forest to thrive, the region must receive an average of about 75 cm (29.5 inches) of rain per year.
The trees of a deciduous forest shed their leaves in the fall, and grow new leaves each spring. As a result, the ground is covered in a layer of old and decaying leaves. This along with the increased rain and warmer weather means that the soil of a deciduous forest is richer than that of the coniferous forest biome. Also, because more sunlight reaches the forest floor, the ground is covered with a variety of wild flowers, ferns, and brush.
A deciduous forest has very long and warm summers. Winters are still cold, but not as cold and not as long as the coniferous forest biome.
