Effect of Support on Lianescent Xylem Formation
To investigate the impact of support availability on the formation of lianescent xylem, we analyzed plants cultivated for 32 months, both with and without support (Fig. 2d and 2e, respectively). Two-centimeter-length stem samples were collected at regular 50 cm intervals, starting from the apex and avoiding nodes and potential injury. Subsequently, fresh cross-sections 10 to 25 µm in thickness were obtained using a sliding microtome. Sections were then mounted unstained on 50% glycerin semi-permanent slides, or double stained with 1% Astra Blue and 1% Safranin (Bukatsch, 1972). Photomicrographs were captured as previously described.