This paper presents a methodology for creating computer models that capture the development of plants using the formalism of L-systems and incorporating biological data. Measurements of key characteristics are gathered from actual plants.
Statistical analysis is performed to convert the raw data into functions which describe growth.
The quantitative model is formed from the qualitative model and growth functions, as well as approximated functions describing the growth of model elements for which data has not been obtained. A visualisation of the model is produced. An evaluation of the model is performed. The visualisation aids in exposing any flaws in the qualitative or quantitative models, and helps identify any incorrectly estimated functions. If a further iteration of this modelling process is required, this process is repeated.