Researchers are exploring the ambitious goal of growing trees on Mars, led by Robert Olszewski, a professor at Warsaw University of Technology. 

Their studies indicate that increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on Mars is crucial for supporting plant growth and raising the planet's temperatures.

Key findings on Martian conditions

The research highlights that the ideal conditions for plant growth are not found in Mars's tropical regions but rather in the Hellas Basin. 

"Surprisingly, the conditions that allow plant growth do not occur first within the tropics (±25°) but in the Hellas Basin region. A further increase in the greenhouse effect expands the area suitable for plant growth in the southern hemisphere," explained the research paper.

Olszewski's team utilized historical data from the Viking Mars lander to simulate various processes on the planet.

They assessed the necessary atmospheric pressure, oxygen levels, acceptable CO2 concentrations, temperatures for tree growth, and available water.

Current Martian conditions are inhospitable to life, making the concept of terraforming and low-pressure greenhouses vital for future plant growth.

The study emphasizes the importance of temperature as a fundamental factor in terraforming, affecting the CO2 cycle and liquid water formation. 

For successful tree growth, temperatures need to be significantly higher, with minimal daily fluctuations. 

Additionally, the growing season on Mars should last at least 110 sols (Martian days).