Best timing in spring
Apply mulch after soil warms and perennials emerge so you can see plant crowns. Late March through May is typical in temperate climates — adjust for your frost date.
If you mulch too early on wet soil, you can trap cold and slow emergence. Wait until beds are workable and weeds are pulled or treated.
Prep steps before spreading
Edge beds, remove winter debris, and pull existing weeds. Install or refresh edging to hold mulch. Water plants if soil is dry — mulch on dry soil still helps, but plants stress less when hydrated first.
For new beds, consider landscape fabric or cardboard only where long-term weed pressure is severe — many gardeners prefer thick mulch alone for perennials.
Spreading technique
Dump piles in sections, rake to uniform depth using a hard rake or hands. Use a yardstick or stake marked at 3 inches to spot-check depth. Keep mulch pulled back from trunks and building siding.
On slopes, shredded mulch outperforms nuggets. Water lightly after spreading to settle dust and help knit fibers on dyed products.