As the Major Snow solar term begins, farmers across the Chinese mainland are diligently harvesting their crops to secure food supplies for the winter months. Major Snow is the 21st of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar, a vital agricultural guide that has been used for centuries to direct food production and daily routines.
During this period, temperatures drop sharply, and heavy snowfall blankets many areas of northern China. The sudden shift in weather conditions prompts farmers to expedite their harvesting efforts to prevent crops from being damaged by the cold and snow.
In the northeastern provinces, fields of wheat, corn, and other staples are abuzz with activity as farmers work against the clock. “We rely on the solar terms to plan our agricultural activities,” says Li Wei, a farmer from Heilongjiang Province. “Major Snow signals that time is running short, so we must bring in the harvest quickly.”
The solar terms, deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, divide the year into segments that reflect seasonal changes. Farmers use this ancient system to anticipate weather patterns and make informed decisions about planting and harvesting. The continued reliance on these traditional methods underscores their effectiveness in modern agriculture.
In addition to harvesting, farmers are also preparing the land for the next planting season and taking measures to protect perennial crops from the harsh winter. Community efforts are common during this time, with neighbors helping each other to ensure that everyone can complete their harvests in time.
The agricultural hustle during Major Snow not only secures the food supply but also preserves traditions that have been passed down through generations. As the snow begins to fall, the collective efforts of these farmers highlight the enduring resilience and adaptability of rural communities across the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
