Methods

The development of the splitting test, based on the pairing test \cite{Chauhan2010}, has resulted in a simple and quick method of growth-strain measurement which can be used on small stems. The test relies on the release of stored strain energy in a single plane via cutting through the pith as can be seen in Figure \ref{202850} \citet{Chauhan2010} derived Equation \ref{eq:st_japan} to estimate the deflection given growth-strain from the sample geometry.