At the R7 growth stage, how much yield loss can be expected from frost damage to soybeans?

During the R7 growth stage, which is when soybeans are at physiological maturity, the impact of frost damage on yield is significantly less compared to earlier growth stages. At this point, the plants have usually filled their pods, and the seeds are nearing their optimal moisture content for harvest.

When frost occurs at R7, the primary concern is that it can affect the leaves and stems, but since the pods are already filled and maturity has been reached, the actual yield loss is minimal or nonexistent. Essentially, since the plants have completed most of their growth and yield potential, they are less susceptible to changes in environmental conditions, including frost. This is why the correct interpretation indicates that expected yield loss from frost damage at this stage can be around zero bushels.

In contrast, earlier stages of growth, like flowering and pod development, are where frost damage can cause significant reductions in yield, which would correspond to higher expected bushel losses.