April 20, 2009 is the day of grain rain in the 24 solar terms in Chinese Lunar Calendar. The amount of rainfall increases much than the day of rain water. It is very important for the growth of crops. There is a saying among farmers, "rain can help all kinds of crops to grow". The right and timely rain will help the growth of grains.
The day of grain rain is also a great day to pick and cook tea leaves. "Grain Rain Tea" is the name for tea which is made around the time of grain rain. In water, the one with one sprout and one tender leaf looks like an ancient spear with a flag. Therefore, it is called "flag spear". The one with one sprout and two leaves looks like the tongue of a sparrow. Therefore, it is called "the tongue of sparrow". Grain rain tea has a strong and fragrant taste and can last for a long time in water. Grain rain tea is one of the best kinds of tea. The day of grain rain is also suggested to be the day of drinking tea by the China Tea Science Society and other organizations. Many activities to promote Chinese tea culture and the healthy way of drinking tea are held on this day. The day of grain rain normally arrives around April 20 in the Georgian Calendar.