The Best Time to Mulch You Garden—and When You Shouldn't, According to Experts

Timing is everything when it comes to caring for your garden—a sentiment that's especially true for mulching. Mulch helps to prevent weeds, improve moisture retention, prevent soil erosion, and provide insulation, giving you healthier, thriving plants in the process. But mulching your yard at the wrong time can have unintended consequences. To ensure you're doing this garden chore correctly, we asked experts when to mulch your garden—and when not to.

When to Mulch Your Garden

Spring and fall are typically the best times to mulch your garden. "Spring mulching prepares the garden for the growing season, while fall mulching protects plants from winter stress," says Alexander Betz, landscape designer for Plant by Number.

How to Mulch During Winter

Although spring and fall are the best times to mulch your garden, there are other times of year when gardeners like to lay down mulch. "Mulching newly planted plants after the ground has frozen in early winter may prevent the plant from heaving during the freezing-thawing cycle over winter," says Kurt Morrell, the AP farm associate vice president for landscape operations at the New York Botanical Garden. If you do choose to mulch your garden during winter, gradually remove it as the ground and temperatures warm up. This allows the soil to warm up properly.

How to Mulch During Spring

As stated, mulching during spring is ideal. Wait until mid-to-late spring after the soil has warmed up but before weeds start popping up. "In most regions, aim for mid-to-late April," says Betz. "Mulching too early can trap cold moisture and slow plant growth." Sprinkle a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over your garden beds and around trees, making sure not to place it too close to trunks.

How to Mulch During Summer

Laying down mulch in summer isn't necessary but it can help with soil moisture retention and suppress weeds. "It keeps the soil cooler, slows evaporation during hot spells, and prevents weeds from taking over," says Betz. "Just be mindful of using lighter colors or organic mulch to avoid overheating the soil."

How to Mulch During Fall

Mulching during fall has its own unique benefits. "In temperate zones, apply mulch in early to mid-fall, around late September to October. This conserves moisture and insulates roots before winter," says Betz. "Make sure to clean up debris first to avoid pest issues." Avoid mulching in late November, which can insulate the ground and prevent plant dormancy, says Morrell. The much-needed hibernation helps plants survive the cold winter months.

When Not to Mulch

The worst time to mulch your garden beds is during early spring or when the soil is still cold and wet. "If the soil is still cold and soggy, mulching can trap moisture and stunt growth," says Betz. Mulching too early can also keep the soil sold, which may cause plants to bloom later or not at all. Betz adds that you should always time mulching based on local weather and soil conditions.