The answer to 'mulching schedule' is that most experts recommend mulching your landscaping 1-2 times per year, typically in the spring and fall. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate plant roots from temperature extremes. The ideal mulch depth is 2-4 inches, with care taken not to pile it directly against the trunks of trees and shrubs.
The spring mulch application should be done after the ground has thawed but before plants begin their active growth. The fall application helps protect roots over the winter. Reapplying mulch every 6-12 months ensures it continues to provide these benefits for your landscaping.