growing pineapples: old wisdom vs. new shortcuts in my backyard

I still remember the taste of pineapple from my childhood—sweet, juicy, and always a treat at family gatherings. Back then, my grandmother would tell stories about how nothing good comes easy, especially in the garden. Five years ago, I decided to try growing my own pineapple here in North America, just like she did back home. Let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. Our climate isn’t exactly tropical, and neighbors often questioned my patience. Some folks these days prefer quick results—hydroponics, store-bought starts, or even artificial lights. But I stuck to the old ways: patience, sun, and a lot of hope. This week, I finally harvested my first pineapple. The smell took me right back to those childhood summers. Yet, my son laughed, saying, "Why wait five years when you can buy one in five minutes?" It made me wonder—are we losing something by always choosing convenience over tradition? In our community, some see these slow-growing projects as a waste of space, especially with HOA rules about tidy lawns. Others, like me, see them as a way to connect with our roots and teach the next generation about patience and reward. Have you ever tried growing something the old-fashioned way? Do you think it’s worth the wait, or should we embrace faster, modern methods? Let’s talk about what we value more: the journey or the result. #gardeningmemories #pineapplejourney #traditionvsmodern #Gardening