As many gardeners know, there is a common rule of thumb that advises when it’s OK to start planting flowers and vegetables. You should hold off planting until Mother’s Day. Many people grew up hearing these words of advise from parents and grandparents who likely heard them from theirs. While pansies and a few other annuals may be hardy enough for the temperature highs and lows, we recommend waiting until mid-May or later to start putting things in the ground. The guideline is an important reminder that early spring isn’t the best time to start planting summer annuals, but Mother’s Day is a safe time to start.