Chapter 120: Don't Talk Nonsense

It was not until noon that Zhong Di finally managed to sketch out a rough blueprint. This included the basic data and structural framework, as well as the necessary raw materials and their approximate quantities.

He divided the work into two parts. The first was the blueprint itself, which Zhong Di still needed to refine—many figures required adjustment. It was not simply a matter of erecting the structure and being done with it. The construction of the greenhouse would have lasting consequences; once the plans were drawn and the greenhouse built, any mistakes would be difficult to rectify.

The second part concerned the materials and their quantities. Zhong Di had only made an estimate; when the time came to negotiate with the suppliers, adjustments could be made as needed, and they would likely accept this arrangement.

These materials included bricks, cement, sand, reed panels, stones, clay, straw, steel frames, fireproof insulation boards, and various smaller items such as wire. Based on the initial data, Zhong Di calculated an approximate amount for each.

This task would surely be entrusted to Shao Hong, who already had a driver’s license and was well coordinated with Zhong Di’s father and elder sister. The matter would be handled smoothly, with no need for Zhong Di to worry.

As for whether there would be surplus or shortage of materials, it was of no consequence.

All that remained was Zhong Di’s blueprint. He would go over the details again in the afternoon, and as long as everything was settled before construction began, there would be no problem.

Once he had thought it through, Zhong Di handed the prepared documents to Shao Hong. Upon receiving the procurement list, Shao Hong examined it carefully, while Zhong Di did not interfere.

“Zhong Di, I noticed you didn’t mention anything about materials for the fishpond greenhouse,” Shao Hong asked curiously.

The construction of the greenhouse and the shed were essentially part of the same project; tackling them together would be more efficient.

Zhong Di realized this—why not take advantage of the opportunity and build the shed as well? Once the weather turned cold, they could simply cover it with film, and the problem would be solved.

However, building the shed posed some difficulties: twenty meters by twenty meters. Without water, it would be easy, but with water, it was more complicated, especially considering the need for rust prevention.

After some thought, Zhong Di said softly, “That’s a job we can’t handle ourselves; we’ll have to outsource it.”

“I know what you’re thinking,” Shao Hong replied. “It’s just the concern about not having central columns. Whether for stability or otherwise, it’s hard to manage. But honestly, you’re overthinking it.”

“For stability, our purpose for the shed is simply to maintain a certain temperature in winter; we don’t require much height. We can choose lightweight beams and install wind barriers on both sides, which will solve the issue nicely.”

“Stable structures are a requirement for standard intelligent greenhouses, so there’s no need for us to be so thorough.”

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As for this point, Shao Hong had a different perspective. A span of twenty meters was not particularly long; columns would be good, but lacking them wasn’t a dealbreaker.

Lower the height, select lightweight materials, set up wind barriers—there wouldn’t be any issue.

“Yes, I hadn’t considered that. Alright, I’ll leave the shed design to you,” Zhong Di said, having carefully weighed Shao Hong’s suggestion and found it highly feasible.

It was indeed as Shao Hong had said; Zhong Di had been thinking too rigidly, aiming for the structure of a standard intelligent greenhouse, when all they really needed was something to preserve warmth in winter.

With this realization, the matter became much easier to handle.

After settling the discussion, Zhong Di informed his father and elder sister, marking the official start of the project.

That afternoon, just after waking from a nap, Zhong Di saw several trucks parked at the entrance of the farm.

They were loaded with various graffiti boards and some biomimetic trash bins, in all sorts of styles.

These were items he had signed for and purchased; he knew exactly what they were. All the hardware plans had been finalized, including repairs to the central paths.

Trash bins, wooden posts, graffiti boards, and supplies needed for the flower arrangement workshops were all there.

As he watched the workers install bins and other items, Zhong Di conducted detailed measurements—lengths and widths, verifying everything. If mistakes were made, the measurements wouldn’t miraculously yield an extra meter.

Fortunately, technology had made things easier; a smartphone could handle most tasks, including compass readings.

One thing remained: the angle.

After careful consideration, Zhong Di decided to build with an east-northeast orientation, at a five-degree angle.

This decision was based on comprehensive factors. In their region, winter temperatures could drop to minus twenty degrees Celsius, with highs around zero. It was a cold region within China, but not extremely so.

The weather was generally clear, with few overcast days, hence the chosen angle.

Because of the eastern wall, morning sunlight was strong. By tilting slightly northward, photosynthesis would be enhanced.

In simple terms, a west-north tilt preserved warmth, while an east-north tilt increased photosynthetic efficiency.

Just as he was busy, Zhong Di received a call from Su Rou, saying they were about to arrive.

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They had arranged it the night before. There would be only one table today; with Su Rou’s group, two tables would be more than enough.

After confirming the final figures, Zhong Di headed to the south end of the farm, just in time to see Su Rou and her friends arriving.

Su Rou, Lin Xiao, Yang Yi, and an unfamiliar girl—a face Zhong Di didn’t recognize.

As the temperature continued to drop, these beauties finally stowed away their short skirts, shorts, and sandals, donning long pants and sleeves.

Su Rou always carried an air of gentleness, seeming both outgoing and reserved; this time was no exception.

“Zhong Di, this is my other good friend, Wang Ting,” Su Rou introduced her.

So all their names were two syllables! Zhong Di mused, though he wouldn’t ask such trivial questions.

After exchanging pleasantries, Zhong Di had someone prepare the meal.

Well, with four people, they ordered sixteen dishes, six of which were heavy hitters—red willow kebabs and nang pit meat, not a single one left out.

Clearly, they intended to pack up leftovers.

Zhong Di lent a hand, while Su Rou, Lin Xiao, and the others played in the garden. The place was becoming more beautiful all the time, with new wonders on every visit.

“I saw the farm’s audio social account promoting mosquito-repelling herbs. Haven’t you been bothered by mosquitoes lately? You should take a couple pots home,” Lin Xiao whispered.

“Ah, yes, they've been driving me crazy. I don’t really like mosquito coils. Honestly, in this orchard, I’ve made several trips and there haven’t been any mosquitoes; but as soon as I leave, they swarm around me.”

They chatted among themselves, taking photos, pretending to fish with rods, feeding ducks with corn.

“Look, the mandarin ducks are so happy. I heard they mate for life,” Su Rou said, snapping photos of a pair, full of envy.

“Well, there’s someone perfect for you right here,” Lin Xiao teased with a grin.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Su Rou replied, blushing.

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