Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of processing a source image of at least one seedling may include: a) segmenting the source image into at least a foreground portion and a background portion to form a segmented image, b) skeletonizing the segmented image to form a skeletonized image, the skeletonized image including a skeleton, c) dividing the skeleton into a plurality of segments, d) identifying alternate separations of the skeleton, each alternate separation including at least two groups, each group including at least one segment and potentially relating to a individual seedling, and e) evaluating a plurality of the alternate separations as a function of at least one of: 1) individual angles defined by connecting segments of corresponding groups, 2) combined angles defined by connecting segments of corresponding groups, 3) length defined by connecting segments of corresponding groups, and 4) unused segments.