I am in the southeastern portion of Michigan, I have taken the mulch off of my DLs. Every year I get stuck with pale,
crumpled plants coming up under that mulch and I'm tired of it. I don't know what temperatures where you are might be, so I would consider that.

The plants are very strong and if they come up after the mulch is remove, I think they look nicer. I will say that
this is an experiment.

Actually, one bed didn't have the mulch removed because there is only 1-2 inches on it. (We ran out.)

Good luck.

Kay

I would pull the mulch away from the crowns as soon as you can to avoid rot.

I use hay and it tends to break down somewhat during the winter. Also, I leave all the spent foliage on for natural protection. I have never removed anything and have never seen rot.

I guess the soil conditions have a lot of influence on whether or not rot tends to occur. My soil drains fairly well and I use about 5-6 inches of triple shredded pine bark and mulch up to and a little over my DL's. I started pulling back mulch about 10 days ago, and several of mine had rot issues. A few others (that I thought were toast) look to be recovering. I spent a lot of time yesterday removing excess mulch from around my DL's. With lots of spring rain showers likely in the weeks ahead....I didn't want to risk having any more losses.

Linda