Need to plant flowers in Summer from seed. Any ideas?

I need to help my 7 year old grow a flower bed and window box for a cub scout project. We live in Southern California and it is now the end of July. What should he plant? I have no idea what will grow at this time of year from seeds. Any suggestions?

I'm almost certain that you can grow just about anything you want from seeds in so. Calif. at this time. A number of herbs should do well in a window box. Fast growing plants would be the most interesting for a young child, I would think. You might try sunflowers, zinnia or 4 O'clocks. Sensitive Plant would be interesting for kids to watch fold up when touched. Petunias grow quickly and put out flowers in no time. Does he have a deadline on when the plants have to be in flower?
Chris

Are there any stipulations for the project, such as size of bed or box? Are all the members of the troop each doing the same project? growgirl59's idea of a herb window box possibly with small marigolds planted in it for color, and armed with the fact that marigolds repel some bugs, it would probably be unique and a winner (not in the context that it is a competition). The seeds for a flower bed would probably depend on what size bed they are supposed to plant. If the whole troop is doing the project what happen to those that do not have land available for a bed, or is the bed being provided for elsewhere?

No specifications as to when the plants need to be in flower, but I would like it to be over with asap. They have many other things to be working on. I like some of the ideas given. Thank you growgirl and Surreybrit. The project is done solely by each boy. I have a baby swimming pool we may use for a flowerbed and I think we may try the herbs in the window box.

You probably know already, but if you use the pool, you will need to provide some drainage. I know this project may be a drag for you because of the decisions that need to be made, and you will need to orchestrate the project so he feels it is a positive experience, but I think it's a great idea to show kids first hand how things grow. If he's into it at all, it will give him a feeling of accomplishment and appreciation for the things we tend to take for granted. Now, hopefully it will stay at that level, or one day he may be so into it that he's up until 1:45 am talking with other plant people like some of us. I have to repeat in my head several times a day...everything in moderation!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go to the Plant ID forum to see if I can shed some light on an mystery plant or two before the sun comes up!!!!

Zinnias, Marigolds, Four O'Clocks, Alyssum, Morning Glory, Cosmos, could all be started from seed now...most of these germinate quickly.

Nasturtium is another easy plant, and has big seeds that are easy to work with: http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/703/

For me, here in the near tropics, Zinnia is a best bet for summer, but, they are slow compared to other annuals. Marigolds are good and bloom sooner.