Once flowering begins, R stages are used. These stages are numbered 1 through 8. Odd numbered stages are the beginning of the major reproductive events (flower, pod, seed, maturity) and even numbered stages represent the full expression of that event. To determine the proper stage observe the developemnt of the flowers and pods on the plant and compare to the table below.
| R1 |
Beginning flower |
One open flower at any node on plant
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| R2 |
Full flower |
Open flower at one node of the two uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed leaf
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| R3 |
Beginning pod |
Pod is 3/16 inch long at one of the four uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed leaf
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| R4 |
Full pod |
Pod is 3/4 inch long at one of the four uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed leaf
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| R5 |
Beginning seed |
Seed is 1/8 inch long in the pod at one of the four uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed leaf
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| R6 |
Full seed |
Pod contains a green seed that fills the pod cavity at one of the four uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed leaf
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| R7 |
Beginning maturity |
One normal pod on the main stem has obtained its mature pod color (tan or brown)
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| R8 |
Full maturity |
Ninety-five percent of the pods have obtained their mature pod color
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