Crop growth is slow period. Even some housing crops take a week to grow depending on what it is. Would probably suggest just getting used to that.

As far as the time gating, why are we shocked? Time gating exists in many places in this game and makes sense that they'd apply it to IS as well.

I really wish some would realize that this game is catered to casuals (those who have jobs, real life responsibilities, families, those who can't no life everything). I'm someone who can no life and know better than to complain about things being time gated lol. I just accept the pacing and pick up other activities in game/another game to hold myself over while waiting.