Performance
To estimate the apical growth rate (AGR), we installed a mark at 5 cm
below the stem apical meristem, which remained on the plant for 6 months
(beginning of spring to autumn). After this time, we measured the length
of the stem from the mark to the tip of the apex, subtracting the
initial 5 cm, so we measured the total growth of the period, and we
average it for the time period (centimeters/month). We measured 25-30
individuals per species on each study site (n=310), selecting
individuals that were separated by 10 meters at least, with just one
apex, an average height of 60-80 cm, 5-10 cm stem diameter and climbed
on different trees and that had no visible connections.