In the vibrant world of gardening, Tim Flakoll's backyard in Fargo, North Dakota, is a testament to his passion and creativity. With a rich family history rooted in agrarian pursuits, Flakoll's garden is a living legacy, a tribute to his mother, Wilma, who passed away three years ago.
What makes Flakoll's garden unique is his intentional approach to design. Every plant, every decoration, has a story and a reason behind it. From the peony with its special marker, connecting him to his family's farmstead, to the Asiatic lilies and daylilies that bloom in abundance, each element is carefully chosen.
"The overarching theme is continuous blooming," Flakoll explains. "I want my garden to be a spectacle of color and life." And he achieves this with a diverse range of plants, including the surprising amaryllis, typically an indoor holiday plant, now thriving outdoors.
Flakoll's friend, Melissa Brandt, who assists him in planning and planting, describes his garden as "magical." It's a space where the front yard soaks up the morning sun, while the back yard, shaded by trees, offers a different kind of tranquility.
The centerpiece, a metal gazebo, is a vision of potted flowers and patio lights, with a hidden koala sculpture waiting to be discovered in the tree above. It's a garden that invites exploration and discovery.
But it's not just about the plants. Flakoll's garden is a celebration of his passions and interests. He incorporates nods to his favorite movies, like the miniature hot air balloons inspired by "The Wizard of Oz," and plans to create an "edelweiss" display, a reference to "The Sound of Music." Even the birdhouse is a tribute to the iconic Hotel Coronado from the movie "Some Like it Hot."
"Tim's garden is a reflection of his personality," Brandt says. "It's whimsical, creative, and full of surprises."
During the Red River Valley Garden Tour, Flakoll's yard will be open to the public, offering a chance to experience this unique garden and its many stories. With miniature horses from North Dakota State University and the artist Rando painting on-site, it promises to be an overwhelming display of color and creativity.
"People will be immersed in a world of imagination and beauty," Flakoll says. "It's a garden that celebrates life and the joy of gardening."
As we explore Flakoll's garden, we're reminded that gardening is not just about plants, but about the stories we tell and the memories we cherish. It's a living art form, a personal expression of one's passions and connections.
