Which of the following harvest conditions most likely would reduce seed quality?

Harvesting conditions play a critical role in determining seed quality, and understanding these elements is essential for ensuring healthy crop output. Rain-dry cycles can significantly impact seed quality for several reasons.

When seeds are exposed to moisture from rain during the harvest period, they can absorb this water, leading to a state of high moisture content within the seed. This excess moisture can create a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria, increasing the risk of seed disease. Additionally, seeds with high moisture content are more prone to mold growth and other forms of deterioration, which can reduce germination rates and overall viability.

Furthermore, after a rain event, if seeds are subsequently dried out too quickly, the fluctuations in moisture levels can cause physical stress, leading to cracking and other structural damage to the seed. Such stress can compromise the seed's ability to germinate effectively, ultimately affecting yields in subsequent planting cycles.

Given these reasons, rain-dry cycles can lead to significant reductions in seed quality compared to other conditions such as high humidity, windy conditions, or cool temperatures, which may not have as immediate or pronounced an effect on seed viability.