Bulbs: Can I plant a cover crop (Fall Rye) over new bulbs?, 1 by podster

podster wrote:
Pine needles and no, they don't change the PH of the soil but will break down like other composts.
They also have the advantage of allowing water thru but blocking most unwanted growth.
It also prevents evaporation which really helps in this southern climate.
You can mulch lightly so bulbs will sprout thru but it will keep soil errosion to a minimum.
It doesn't compact and also stays in place ~ that is, as long as the household pets don't relocate it. lol

Here in east TX, it is free for the taking. Some forestry people have made a business of harvesting and and baling it to sell at the garden centers. It is also quite attractive as a background for green foliage.

Hard to see it in the background but these snowdrops bloom thru it in February.