When to Mulch in Missouri: A Simple Seasonal Guide for Homeowners

Mulching is one of the most important (and easiest) ways to protect and improve your landscape — but timing matters. In Warrenton, Missouri, our climate brings seasonal changes that can directly impact when and how you should mulch.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you get the most from your mulch:

🟢 Spring Mulching (March – May)

Best for: Moisture retention & weed prevention

Spring is the most popular time to mulch. After winter, your soil needs protection as temperatures rise. Fresh mulch helps:

• Hold moisture

• Block weed growth

• Boost plant growth and soil temperature

🌱 Tip: Wait until the soil has warmed up a bit — usually mid to late March.

🍂 Fall Mulching (September – November)

Best for: Insulation before winter freeze

Fall mulching helps protect roots from freezing temperatures and keeps soil active longer. It’s especially useful for flower beds, shrubs, and around the base of trees.

🌾 Tip: Don’t wait too long — get your fall mulch down before the first hard freeze.

🔥 Bonus: Avoid Mid-Summer Mulching (Unless Needed)

If you mulch too late in the summer, it can trap excessive heat and dry out shallow-rooted plants. If you must refresh in summer, use lighter mulch and water consistently.

At Doug & Sons, we help Warrenton homeowners get the timing, type, and depth of mulch just right — so your yard looks great and your plants stay healthy.

Need help choosing or laying mulch this season? We’re here when you need us.