waiting three years for asparagus: was it worth it?

Three years ago, I planted a row of asparagus crowns in my backyard, just like my father did when I was a child. Back then, we’d gather in the cool spring mornings, digging in the rich soil and dreaming of the day those tender green spears would finally poke through. This spring, after seasons of patience, failed attempts, and neighbors shaking their heads at my old-fashioned ways, I finally harvested my first real crop. It’s funny—my daughter, who loves instant results and hydroponic kits, couldn’t understand why I waited so long. She says, "Why not just buy them at the store?" But for me, there’s something healing about the slow rhythm of traditional gardening, especially in our unpredictable North American climate. The thrill of grilling these homegrown beauties tonight brings back memories of family cookouts and the scent of fresh earth. Yet, not everyone in our community agrees. Some say asparagus beds are a waste of space, preferring neat lawns or ornamental flowers. Others worry about water use or the mess during harvest. Sometimes I wonder if the old ways still have a place in our fast-paced, HOA-ruled neighborhoods. But as I stand in my garden, holding these spears, I feel a quiet pride—and maybe a little defiance. Would you wait three years for a taste of your own past? Or is the future all about shortcuts and convenience? #asparagus #gardeningmemories #familytradition #Gardening