applying compost in spring - how much and how?

Thanks to Green Streets, I have a very very large compost pile to spread over our stop sign/pathway perennial beds.

Can I just dump it over existing perennials and sprouting bulbs?? And if so, to what height/thickness? Will the plants and bulbs push their way through? [I would like to spread compost to maximum height possible, due to the amount I have, plus need to build up soil] It's Feb. 24th 2013.

 

Put it around them, rather than on them.

 

thanks Ron.