Q.Composted Manure Application
My perennials in the flower bed are close together, do I have to cut back them before adding composted cow manure? If not, how do I work the composted manure into the soil without damaging the root systems? Or can I just lay it on top of the soil without tilling? I also have an inch layer of mulch in the bed already, should I remove it before adding manure?

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
You can, simply, top dress if you would like. I prefer to poke thin holes with a nail to perforate the top of the soil, but this is not completely necessary. It does help to get some of that manure down to the roots, faster, though.
You can mix it, gently, with the mulch or top dress.
Here is an article that will help you with using manure:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/manures/the-benefits-of-manure-in-your-garden.htm