The six reproductive stages discussed here mostly concern development of the kernel and its parts. All of the stage descriptions are the beginning or initiation of the stage unless otherwise stated. Kernel descriptions of the R2, R3, and R4 stages generally apply to all kernels on the ear, but kernels from the middle of the ear should be used to judge the stage. Kernel descriptions of the R5 and R6 stages pertain to all kernels on the ear. The top ear of a prolific plant should be used to judge the stage unless the stage of the lower ears is specifically desired.

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