Question: I have many types of bulbs. They were planted on time in the fall, but, even though spring is many weeks away, they’re already starting to sprout. Do I need to worry about losing the plants before they can flower next spring?

Answer: No. That early growth will happen almost every year in December and January. Mulch the beds with compost or bark to conserve moisture and prevent weeds, but don’t worry too much about the bulbs’ foliage getting frozen. If we have a really cold snap, the tips of the leaves might be browned. You could make a case for piling loose tree leaves over them in that kind of weather extreme, but pull them back as soon as the weather moderates.