Chinese Journal of Agrometeorology ›› 2026, Vol. 47 ›› Issue (7): 989-1009.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1000-6362.2026.07.001

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Historical Changes, Characteristics and Scientific Interpretation of the Seventy−two Pentads

TANG Zhi-qiang, SONG Ying-jie, SHI Miao, SUI Wei-hui, ZHU Tian-zong   

  1. 1. Agricultural History Research Department of China Agricultural Museum, Beijing 100125, China; 2. Huafeng Meteorological Media Group Co., Ltd./Key Open Laboratory of Twenty-four Solar Terms, China Meteorological Administration, Beijing 100081; 3. China Meteorological·24 Solar Terms Research Institute, Beijing 100081
  • Received:2025-09-16 Online:2026-07-22 Published:2026-07-21

Abstract:

Phenology refers to the periodic natural phenomena of animals, plants, weather, etc., that change with seasons. The Seventytwo pentads are the result of the meticulous observation and summary of natural phenomena by ancient ancestors in the practice of longterm production, and their application to the judging of agricultural time. This study built on previous studies and focused on the formation, evolution, characteristics and implications of the Seventytwo periods. It analyzed the record of the Seventytwo periods in historical literature and summarized their economic, social and cultural values in conjunction with contemporary production and life. The results showed that the historical changes of the Seventytwo pentads went through a long process from sporadic to abundant, from scattered to orderly, and from folk to official. Its response system had significant characteristics such as naturalness, timing, correspondence, typicality and dynamism, in accordance with the laws of natural science and agricultural production. The combination of promoting the Seventytwo pentads and modern technological means can provide more accurate and efficient guidance and services for agricultural production.

Key words: Phenology, Seventy?two Pentads, Phenological system, Scientific definition, Agricultural activities