I live in zone 6 (USA) and have never touched them except to remove end of year dead growth and they do fine and have even expanded their area of growth. If you would like to lay down a layer of mulch over them I see no reason why you shouldn't.

I think I will cover it with some large leaves just in case Loosestrife.

Yes,mother nature does exactly the same thing for me.

Does she cover you with large leaves Loosestrife? :0)

Linda:I am a few weeks past my 85th year on the planet earth but I am hoping that the old dry leaves fly right past me for the time being:)

I think we'll all be covered with leaves eventually.

I agree Loosestrife......I have just spent the last hour brushing up leaves in the garden. The blower which I also use does cover me in leaves from time to time. :0)