Every October, the front corner of our garden erupts in a brilliant display of gold. Clusters of 20-30 bright yellow blooms sway atop towering six- to eight-foot stems, turning Maximilian sunflowers into an Fall showstopper.

As a beekeeper, I know Fall food sources are often scarce. I especially value Maximilian sunflowers for what they offer this late in the season. Their abundant pollen draws honeybees and native bees alike, filling the waving stalks with a satisfying hum. Watching them dance among the golden flowers is a joyful reminder that a beautiful garden can also be a generous one, even when the vegetables season is done.

These native wildflowers are wonderfully easy to grow in a backyard garden. I only planted three small starters that I was given by my mom and now look! Once established, they spread easily through their roots, so a little spring maintenance goes a long way. Give them a backdrop – a fence or a wall – to help them stay upright when they are heavy in blooms. In early spring thin crowded shoots or transplant extras to another sunny spot where they can stretch out and shine.