Removing Fall Leaf Litter from Spring Beds

Question

Since it is still cold with snow showers, is it safe to remove the fall leaves I use as winter mulch from my spring bulb beds, and also my container plants? Or should I wait until the air warms up? I have noticed the tops of the spring bulbs peeking through the leaves and I check on the blueberry (Top Hat variety) and it is starting to develop fresh new growth. Also, the yard has thawed out. Any advice you could give would greatly be appreciated.

Answer 1

Yes, it should be fine to go ahead with your early spring cleanup, weather permitting. Most of the spring bulbs that pop up now, along with blueberry plant growth, are fairly hardy so they shouldn’t be affected by any snow or cold temps. Hopefully, winter will soon be gone for good and warmer weather taking its place. I would, however, hold off on any spring planting until it’s warmer and the threat of frost or freeze is passed.