ADA, Minn. — Nestled behind a cluster of trees in Ada, Minnesota, lies Blyss Flower Farm, a half-acre of vibrant zinnia flowers flourishing in the rich black soil. This unique farm, a rare sight in the crop-dominated landscape of northwest Minnesota, invites locals to take a break from their routine and quite literally stop to smell the flowers.
Alyssa Johnson, the farm’s owner, discovered her passion for cut flower farming by chance. Seeing it as a fitting venture for her growing family, she decided to dig into the earth and plant the seeds of what would become Blyss Flower Farm.
The journey began in 2020 when Alyssa and her husband, Paul Johnson, planted their first batch of 300 tulip bulbs. With little experience in flower farming, they started small, experimenting in their vegetable garden. Over time, their efforts bloomed into the thriving flower farm that exists today.
“My goal is to ensure that the flower farm is sustainable, that it blesses our family and the community, and doesn’t become a burden,” said Alyssa Johnson, reflecting on the farm’s growth.
Paul Johnson, who farms corn, wheat, soybeans, sugarbeets, and rye with his father and brother, has applied his agricultural expertise to the flower fields. Despite the challenges of learning a new crop, he notes that flower farming shares many similarities with conventional farming practices.
“The concepts I use in traditional farming—like fertility, weed management, seeding rates, and seedbed preparation—are just as relevant when growing flowers, especially in the zinnia field,” Paul Johnson explained.
Their 5-year-old daughter, Esley, has also become an integral part of the farm. Already knowledgeable about various flower types, she eagerly helps her mother in the fields and understands the crucial role of pollinators, which she affectionately calls her favorites.
“I love the bees and butterflies because they help the flowers,” Esley said, showcasing her early appreciation for nature’s delicate balance.
Blyss Flower Farm now offers residents of Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding areas a peaceful retreat with its you-pick flower events. These occasions allow visitors to fill a cup with a personalized bouquet of fresh flowers, handpicked from the farm’s fields.
On Tuesday, Aug. 20, Blyss Flower Farm will host its third annual Flower Fest, featuring local vendors, growers, creators, crafters, and food trucks. Attendees will also have the opportunity to pick their own bouquet from the farm’s vibrant selection of flowers. Last year’s event drew an impressive crowd of 500 attendees, highlighting the farm’s growing popularity as a destination for relaxation and community connection.
