Elaters function to dig the spore into the soil surface and to tangle spores together, thereby creating a larger propagule and increasing the probability that prothalli will be close enough to ensure fertilization. Elaters may also aid in wind dissemination. Spores released by the strobiliferous stems are dispersed by wind or water. Swimming sperm are released by the antheridia and require water for transport to the egg-containing archegonia. In Alaska, field horsetail is widely distributed from sea level to alpine communities.
Field horsetail is found at a wide range of elevations.
Field horsetail is an early colonizer on floodplain deposits. It is among the most common and abundant sprouter in areas disturbed by debris from drilling activity in northern Alaska. Strobiliferous shoot buds are initiated in July, August and into September. Vegetative buds are initiated in October and November.