Garden Trouble

I seem to be having issues with my gardening. I have these little guys called Elijah Blue. I think I was supposed to cut them back this year? Is this why they're spreading out?
And what is up with this bush? I believe it is a dogwood bush, but I cannot figure out what these lumps are and why it is turning this thing black!
But I did get some sunflowers to grow, so here's some pics of them sprouting up.