Failure To Launch

Lest anyone think I know what I'm doing out in the yard, here are a few of my stragglers for August when most things have taken off. I'm not even sure which seedling this still is left in the tray, but it has remained about this size since I planted it in May. Sad little plant that I just don't have the heart to crush. I think it is kin to the following sunflowers 'Key Lime' that just started blooming. (below)
I also finally have some significant blooms on my sweetspire. I've moved it once and tried all sorts of watering/not watering but it just doesn't seem to like the yard. It is recommended for Ohio but I wouldn't recommend it for anywhere north of Virginia.