Essential Compendium of Sericulture

On the ground, spread a layer of reeds original: "蘆薍" (luwan); various types of aquatic grasses or rushes used to create a clean, breathable floor surface.. Take the leaves and spread them out loosely in rows; do not pile them high or stack them thickly. This is called "arranging the leaves" original: "綜葉" (zongye); a method of organizing the harvest to ensure air circulation.. The purpose of arranging the leaves is to prevent them from fermenting The original text uses "steaming," describing the natural heat generated by a dense pile of green leaves which can lead to rot.. If they do not ferment, no heat will be generated to create condensation. Generally, if leaves have surface moisture, they should be dried in a breeze, and they will soon be ready.

Contaminated Leaves

There are several types of contaminated leaves. Bird droppings and the slime of slugs original: "蛞蝓" (kuoyu); common garden slugs whose mucus trails were thought to be toxic to silkworms. are particularly harmful; if silkworms eat these, they will bloat and die. Therefore, any leaves stained with various types of excrement must be urgently inspected and discarded.

Muddy Leaves

If mulberry leaves are stained with mud, they will irritate the silkworms' mouths Literally "hinder the mouth." and they will refuse to eat. Leaves from low-hanging branches near the ground, or those that have fallen and become soiled with mud, must be washed clean with fresh water. Furthermore, during the silkworm months, if a northwest wind blows, dust will fill the air. The people of the Lake region Referring to the Huzhou region, famous for its high-quality silk production. call this "Yellow Sand Sky." This dust is fine and clings stubbornly to the leaves, covering both the front and back. If silkworms eat this, they will fail to grow. These leaves must be rinsed original: "淘汰" (taotai); specifically meaning to wash or sift in water to remove impurities. repeatedly and then air-dried before feeding.