The best time to install mulch film is in the early spring before you plant your crops. Installing mulch film when soils are still cool helps prevent weeds from germinating and becoming established. The mulch film will warm the soil, allowing you to plant earlier in the season. This gives your crops a head start on growth and maturity. For summer crops, apply mulch film 2-4 weeks before your last expected frost date. For fall crops, install mulch film in late summer, around 6-8 weeks before your first fall frost date. Mulch added too early in fall may actually keep soils warmer than desired. Time the installation so the soil is warm when crop roots are developing. Proper timing will provide your crops with the maximum growing benefits from the mulch film.