On the basis of analysis of the macro‐remains of vegetation the authors have reconstructed the evolution of a polygonal peat bog in Semmeldalen on Nordenskiöld Land, Svalbard since approximately 4,500 B.P. They were able to identify the details of plant succession as reflecting development of the tundra polygons and associated changes in drainage conditions. In addition, species composition was confirmed by palynological analysis; species variation clearly reflected the warmer conditions of the Subboreal (Holocene climatic optimum) and the colder, snowier conditions of the Subatlantic.