why i built a tomato arch and my neighbors argued

Last summer, I decided to build a tomato arch in my backyard, just like my grandfather did when I was a child. I still remember the scent of sun-warmed tomatoes and the laughter of family picking them together. But when I started, my neighbor frowned, saying, "Why not just use cages like everyone else?" It made me think about how gardening has changed—back then, arches were a symbol of abundance and family, but now, people chase convenience and neatness. The arch became a talking point in our community. Some folks loved the nostalgia, others worried it would block sunlight or look messy. In our region, where summers are short and storms can be fierce, I found the arch actually protected my tomatoes better than cages ever did. The vines thrived, and the harvest was richer. Still, some neighbors argued it clashed with our tidy lawns, while others admired its old-fashioned charm. I wonder: are we losing something by trading tradition for trends? Or is it time to embrace new ways, even if it means letting go of what our families taught us? Every time I walk under that arch, I feel connected to my roots—and I can't help but smile when a neighbor stops to debate its place in our community. #tomatoarch #gardeningdebate #familytradition #Gardening