Minor Heat, known as Xiaoshu (小暑) in Chinese, is the 11th solar term in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. It signifies the start of the hottest period of the year. As the name suggests, Minor Heat indicates that the intense heat of summer is just beginning, and even hotter days are yet to come.
During this time, temperatures rise significantly, and the sun shines intensely. It's a period when many regions in China experience heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can lead to lush growth in plants and crops. Farmers are busy in the fields, ensuring that their crops are well taken care of to withstand the upcoming extreme heat.