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thanks for this post matt - we have lots of bulbs that we've properly left leaves on. but what do we do now that they're all dead and dried up? is it safe to dig them up now? or still wait for the leaves to mulch a bit?

pumpkindoodle - what kind of bulbs?

I try to keep it short when I post - which means there is more to the story. I also look forward to what people posting may contribute. I just wanted to mention that binding tight can trap moisture between the leaves (which can promote disease) and also obstruct nutrients that should make their way to the bulbs. The best situation is to let the leaves be free and open to the air as they yellow and die back. But here in the city some people want to keep a neater garden or - in the case of my neighbor - the leaves can flop into the sidewalk and be stepped on. Loosely and delicately binding them can be a good way to keep them safe. Another way to let the bulbs expire and keep things neat is to have plants (like colorful annuals) that camoflauge the waning bulbs.

This is the advice I have been given on bulbs: If the bulbs you have are hardy they can be left in the ground. Once the leaves are yellow/brown they can be plucked off. The bulbs will go dormant during the summer. Fertilizing the bulbs in the fall is best, when they are activated by temperature and putting out new roots.

Non-hardy bulb aftercare varies but also can be dug up after the leaves yellow or die back - but in general they should be dug up before the frost hits. They then need a little gentle cleaning, a period to dry, and then to be put away in a box or bag (with peat, vermiculite, etc;) until the following spring once the danger of frost has passed.

I hope this helps - and any gardeners out there please add or comment to help pumpkindoodle get the best out of those bulbs!