July — Peak Summer Abundance
July brings the heat of high summer and the abundance of the harvest. Two solar terms — Minor Heat and Major Heat — guide this month's seasonal rhythm.
Solar Terms This Month
July is the month when summer shows its full strength. The two solar terms that govern this month — Minor Heat (小暑, July 6-7) and Major Heat (大暑, July 22-23) — mark the hottest period of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
What’s Happening in Nature
- Days are long but beginning to shorten after the summer solstice
- The hottest temperatures of the year arrive (Major Heat)
- Plants are in full growth mode — the garden needs daily attention
- Berries, tomatoes, and summer squash are at their peak
What to Do This Month
In the garden: Water deeply in the early morning. Mulch to retain moisture. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production.
In the kitchen: Embrace raw and lightly cooked meals. Focus on hydrating foods — cucumbers, melons, summer squash. Preserve the abundance through pickling and freezing.
For wellness: Adjust exercise to early morning or evening. Stay hydrated. Rest during the hottest part of the day.