"Shōman", Approaching Fullness Solar term

The eight solar term (of 24) of the year is Shoman (小満), Approaching Abundance. However, in English it is most commonly called "Lesser Ripening" or "Little Fullness". I prefer the translation "Approaching Abundance" as it is more indicative of what this solar term is about. I also sometimes see it called "Pre-fullness" or "Small Satisfaction {for farmers}" in English, which I think are both comprehensible translations too.

I think "Lesser Ripening" was probably translated from the Chinese, where this solar term is known as "Lesser Ripening of Grain", but the solar terms in Japan were adjusted to match Japan's agriculture and nature patterns. This period in Japan marks the fullness of nature, but not at the rate it will be in a few more weeks. Hence, we are 'approaching abundance' or 'pre-fullness'. Nature is full of life and crops are thriving hence farmers get a taste of satisfaction. The wheat gets harvested toward the end of this solar term. The iris, a beloved flower in Japan, start to bloom. The roses are still in bloom too. In addition, the weather has really heated up and will continue to do so. 

The dates of the solar term vary slightly some years, but in 2026 the solar term is from May 21st to June 4th. Within this solar term, like all solar terms, there are three micro seasons which further describe what happens in nature and agriculture at this time of year.