Marigolds are simple to grow from seed and they always seem to be smiling.  I guess they are considered a 'basic' flower but they are one of my favorites.  Bright colors, low maintenance and so easy to grow and gather seeds from -- a no brainer in the garden.  I like a mix of marigolds - bright oranges, variegated (like these), big, small and loving the lemon colored marigolds our neighbor has this year.  Of course, I've already scored some seeds :-)  viva la marigold!