Cosmos Cosmic Yellow brings cheerful daytime color to beds and borders through October, when many other annuals are fading fast. The flowers are bright and simple, held on airy stems that move with the slightest breeze.

Direct-sow seed in spring once soil warms, or grab transplants in summer for quick coverage. They ask only for sun and decent drainage—they actually prefer lean soil and light watering once established. Deadhead to prolong the show, or let the last flowers set seed for next year's volunteers.