Glades are adapted to hot, xeric conditions during the growing season, which are projected to become more common by the end of the century.

This community type develops on areas of exposed bedrock with very thin soils. Many species found in glades are more characteristic of areas south and west of the Central hardwoods region, which are much warmer and drier. All climate models agree conditions will become warmer, and dry conditions are possible in the summer or fall.