The traditional Chinese lunar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Grain in Ear, (Chinese: 芒種), the 9th solar term of a year, begins on June 6 this year, and ends on June 21.

The arrival of Grain in Ear signifies the ripening of awny crops such as barley and wheat. It is also a busy period for farmers.

In China, the 24 solar terms were created thousands of years ago to guide agricultural production. But the solar term culture is still useful today to guide people's lives through special foods, cultural ceremonies and even healthy living tips that correspond with each solar term.

The following are 7 things you need to know about Grain in Ear.