芒种

Grain in Ear is the ninth of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms.

" Grain" refers to the harvest of crops like barley and wheat, while " Ear" indicates the sowing of millet and other grains.

This period marks the start of a busy farming season, with both harvesting and planting happening simultaneously.

During Grain in Ear, rainfall continues to increase, especially in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, leading to the Plum Rains season.

This period, characterized by continuous rain, is ideal for growing rice, vegetables, and fruits, as the abundant water supports their growth.

Since the early Ming Dynasty, people have prayed for a good harvest during Grain in Ear by offering bread made from wheat flour, colored with vegetable juice.