Question
Hi, I have Tulips and Daffadills that have bloomed and now are looking ugly. Can I cut then all the way back yet or should I wait. Some are dried up but others still have some green. I am in Eastern Pa.

Thank you, Elissa

Answer
Hi Elissa,
Thanx for your question.  I do not recommend removing growth from daffodils or tulips until they are yellowed or brown.  While they are green, the leaves are still gathering energy from the sun to produce sugars to be stored in the bulbs for next years growth and bloom.  If you cut them back now, this could result in fewer, weaker or no blooms next year.  It could eventually result in the death of the plant.  Do not tie green growth up in bundles as you could break the tubes that move nutrients throughout the plant's system and cause clogs, etc.  If you have dried leaves, gently remove them with scissors.  I don't recommend tugging on them as you could injure the plant.  Planting annuals around the spring flowers will help hide the messy leaves.  You can of course remove stems once the plant has bloomed whether green or not and in many cases, removing the spent flower will stop seed production which drains the bulb of energy.  I hope this helps.
Tom