Natural brace classifications, quantity of samples, and groupings of branch junction specimens collected from Scutcher’s Acres.
| Natural brace classification | Quantity collected (N) | Sample grouping |
|---|---|---|
| Control (no natural braces present, no included bark in the branch junction) | 37 | Control specimens only |
| Crossing branches and stems | 29 | Natural brace retained: n = 11 Natural brace removed: n = 18 |
| Entwined branches and stems | 7 | Natural brace retained: n = 5 Natural brace removed: n = 2 |
| Fused limbs | 1 | Natural brace retained: n = 1 |