Pollinators like bees usually prefer herbs and garden perennials to annuals, since most annuals have been bred for showy flowers instead of pollen and nectar. But some good options do exist, and if you mix in a few pollinator-friendly options, you'll get to enjoy bright colors with the satisfaction of a healthy backyard ecosystem.
* Cosmos: Good for full-sun areas and often re-seed themselves for next year.
* Zinnias: Another full-sun option with many color options. Blooms all season long.
* Sunflowers: Pollinators and birds love them, and the height makes them a fun project for kids, too.
* Petunias: Full sun to part shade with lots of colors. Make sure to deadhead regularly to keep them in bloom.
* Annual daisies: These blossoms prefer full sun and offer big, gorgeous blossoms in lots of colors to attract all kinds of useful insects.
* Marigolds: Choose an open-center variety to attract honeybees and plant in full sun. Edge your vegetable garden in these yellow flowers to deter rabbits.