GARY BACHMAN Even though outside temperatures are still quite balmy, we are moving into winter. Maybe this year we will actually have a winter. That makes now the perfect time to start planting dianthus. In fact, the perfect time to plant dianthus is when you plant your pansies. Dianthus and pansies are wonderful fall and winter companion plants. Dianthus is a versatile group of plants that we can grow in our Mississippi gardens and landscapes.