This is exceptional stuff with some great data. How strong are these unions and what you can do about making them better.
I wonder how many of us can actually tell the difference between an included bark and non included bark union?
The data shows that a non included bark union isn't that much stronger anyway.
Also, when the diameter of the branch is less than 2/3's the trunk dia the strength is better.
I encourage all to read from page 50 onwards on the second PDF about types of crotches and failures.
codominantstemsincludedvsnot.pdf crotch strength PDF 4.4mb
And some pictures of crotches to get the ole gray matter working.
001.JPG 005.JPG 008.JPG 010.JPG 011.JPG