4. Estimation of the growth rate of stems (vertical rhizomes) in di-meristematic shoots:
Measure, to the nearest mm, the length of the stems of 50 – 100 shoots, collected using
the core sampler as described above, and spanning a wide range of ages (as indicated by a
broad range in the length of their stems). Count the number of stem segments (plus
number of standing leaves) on each (i.e., from the shoot insertion to the basal leaf
meristem). Fit, using linear regression analysis, the equation: