The Arrival of Little Fullness

The Introduction of Small Fullness

Small Fullness, also known as Xiaoman in Chinese, is the ninth solar term in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. As the name suggests, this is a time when grain crops are in full growth, and gradually plump and become mature. The arrival of Small Fullness also indicates that summer is just around the corner, and the weather will start to become hotter and more humid.

The Significance of Small Fullness

Small Fullness is a critical time for farmers, as it is the busiest period for planting and nurturing crops. During this solar term, farmers must work diligently to ensure that the crops grow in a healthy and sustained manner. At the same time, the arrival of Small Fullness also creates a good environment for the growth of various vegetables and fruits, which are rich in nutrition and delicious. The most impressive thing is that this is the time when mulberries are ripe, which is the first fruit of the year in China.

The Customs of Small Fullness

Small Fullness is a time for ancient Chinese to celebrate the hard work in the past and the harvest to come. In Chinese culture, it is customary to eat seasonal fruits during the solar terms. At Small Fullness, mulberry is a great choice, and people usually pick them up at the orchards or nearby trees. It is said that eating Mulberry can prevent colds and eye diseases. Furthermore, there is also a tradition of offering sacrifices to ancestors before Small Fullness, praying for a good harvest and peace. Another popular activity is driving cattle into the fields. People believed that bullocks could drive away pests and help crops grow better.

No matter how the world is changing, the arrival of Small Fullness always represents the unique charm of Chinese culture. It is the time when people cherish nature, celebrate harvest and pray for good fortune!