The flowers of ragweed aren’t showy, compared to the vivid gold clusters of flowers produced by goldenrod plants. ‘Fireworks’ is one of the best-behaved goldenrod selections for well-manicured gardens. Cosmos flowers are one of the easiest annuals to grow from seed; just broadcast them on the top of the soil early in the spring, and Mother Nature will tell them when the temperature is right for germination. The flowers are extremely drought- and heat-tolerant, but they will also bounce back after a light frost. Grow lantana in full sun to prevent problems with powdery mildew. Lantana thrives in well-drained soil, and its salt tolerance makes it a great choice for the beach cottage. For the longest bloom time. choose sterile cultivars that don’t form berries Choose the native A. tuberosa, a long-blooming orange perennial that’s easy to grow from seed. If you’re more drawn to pink flowers, try A. incarnata in moist soils.
