Grain Buds is the eighth solar term in the twenty-four solar terms, beginning when the sun reaches a longitude of 60 degrees. It signifies the rhythm of harvest, marking the commencement of summer harvesting, planting, and management activities.

Meteorological conditions

At this time, the average daily temperature across most of the country exceeds 22°C, with regions in the Jiangnan area reaching highs of over 35°C. The nation gradually enters summer, with diminishing temperature differences between the north and south, abundant rainfall, ample sunlight, and suitable temperatures.

If cold air from the north penetrates into the south, combined with strong warm and moist airflow, it can lead to heavy or even torrential rain. Therefore, the later stages of Grain Buds solar term often represent a tense period for flood prevention in these regions.

Cultural significance 

In Jiangnan, there is a custom known as "Grain Buds uses three vehicles," referring to the waterwheel, oil press, and silk reeling machine. During this period, irrigation is needed for rice paddies, rapeseed is harvested and pressed for oil, and silk farmers begin the silk reeling process, leading to the busy operation of these three vehicles.

The saying "As the wheat heads begin to align, the mulberry leaves are lush for the silkworms" indicates that Grain Buds is celebrated as the birthday of the silkworm deity. Silkworm rearing is delicate, influenced by temperature, humidity, and the quality of mulberry leaves. During April, when silkworms are released, a Silkworm Festival is held. Silkworm farmers shape flour into the form of cocoons, tie it with a bundle of straw, and place the flour cocoons on the straw to symbolize a bountiful harvest of silkworms.