Chapter 1997: Spring Farming

As spring plowing approached, the pace of road construction in Anze Province slowed temporarily. Labor became scarce as the priority shifted to preparing the fields for planting.

After the fields were plowed, seedlings were planted, and crops like melons and beans were sown, there would be another surge of activity following the Dragon Boat Festival.

Funds were allocated, and road repairs focused on widening and reinforcing existing foundations. Though there were numerous twists and turns requiring alterations, the workload remained manageable. Repair efforts had already commenced in the eight towns closest to the state city, requiring minimal adjustments.

Barring any unforeseen tensions, the remaining nine locations, including Hundred Spirit Town and Guluan Town, the furthest away, were slated for completion by August 15th.

Upon completion, the repaired road would significantly enhance travel convenience for commoners, reducing travel time and effort for ox carts and other modes of transportation. The populace lauded the Prefect state’s Lord as a benevolent leader, dedicated to serving the people’s needs.

Meanwhile, the procurement of rice seeds for Anze Province followed the customary practices of the Great Qin Empire, overseen by government supervision. Local merchants collaborated to fulfill this task, though their profit margins remained slim due to low prices. Despite the minimal financial gain, these merchants participated out of obligation rather than expectation of profit.

Despite the lack of profitability, those eligible still vied for the opportunity, eager to secure their share of the benefits.

While the business trip itself may not yield substantial gains, it carried its own advantages. Firstly, it could foster a favorable relationship with the Lord of the Prefect. Secondly, the government might offer discounts or compensations elsewhere, ensuring it was not a loss overall.

With potato planting season approaching, Qiao Xuan instructed Songshi and Liu Fu to remind others not to overlook this task.

Many had indeed forgotten about planting potatoes until the reminder. Hastily, they retrieved the potato seeds stored in the corners of their cellars.

The community held great respect and trust for Lord Shao, recognizing his efforts in combating banditry and improving infrastructure. Given Madam Shao’s emphasis on the importance of potatoes, it was evident they held significant value and should be planted with care.

Many families who did not buy potatoes to plant at that time even asked around to see if anyone could give them some.

Qiao Xuan couldn’t contain her joy upon hearing the news. It was a tremendous relief! She was confident that Anze Province would yield a bountiful potato harvest this year.

With the successful cultivation this year, future reminders would become unnecessary as the scale of potato cultivation naturally expanded.

The versatility of potatoes made them invaluable–they could serve as both a staple food and a vegetable. It would be foolish not to plant them!

Although Anze Province boasted abundant fields, potatoes were undeniably a game-changer.

Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan had become prominent landowners in Anze Province, with ownership of 60,000 mu of fertile land–a significant holding!

However, Qiao Xuan entrusted the management of the planting to the housekeeper, showing little interest in the specifics. She merely visited occasionally to inspect new crops like peppers, star anise, and spices, applying her expertise to ensure optimal growth.

With the spring plowing season underway and no major issues to attend to, Qiao Xuan found herself with ample free time.

With peace reigning in the countryside and Jia Heming’s capable leadership, troublemakers were deterred. Taking advantage of the lull, Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan decided to treat Anan to a visit to Liuhe Manor for a few days.