Harvest the leaf stalk by cutting, or grasp the stalk and pull it up and slightly to one side. The youngest stalks are the most tender. If you have a spot under a tree or near a building that's in the shade most of the day, try growing a shade garden instead of grass. Flowers such as hostas, astilbe, ferns, and begonias all thrive in low-light areas and provide attractive foliage and flowers. If you have clay soil, consider making raised beds and adding compost to improve water drainage.
Shade gardens tend to stay moist and are more susceptible to root and plant rot.
Mulch only if slugs and snails aren't a problem. Putting mulch on too early will encourage rodents to burrow beneath the covering. The goal is to keep plants cold, protecting their roots from repeated freezing and thawing. In warm-winter climates, keep mulch away from the crown of overwintering plants to prevent rot. By removing plants that have finished producing now, you can make room for more flowers and vegetables.