Do Mulched Leaves Placed In Fall Have To Be Removed From Garden In Spring

Question From: Franklin, Michigan, United States
Q: I put mulched leaves [maple] on the gardens in the fall. Do the leaves have to be removed in the spring before putting mulch on the gardens? Thanks

A: I assume the leaves were shredded. Just layer the mulch on top. The worms and microbes will love them. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy