Question
Hi Jeff and Jacob

  Even though daytime temps are still reaching into the low sixties (with exceptions), frost has come early this year to the northeast and we have easily had more than three consecutive nights of frost.

Since some of my plants have put up some of the nicest pitchers in the last month or so, I am reluctant to mulch so early in the fall.  In the past two years I have waited till almost the end of November to mulch my plants.

What I want to know is just how long I can hold off mulching without damaging my plants. looking at the 15 day forecast, 4 out of the 15 are predicted to be below freezing -- all but tonight are predicted to be 30 or above, tonight is predicted to be 20 (I don't actually believe that)

Thanks for your help

Nicole
90 miles north of NYC  

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Mulch your plants when you've experienced a series of over night frost and the day temperatures are in the lower 40s.  In your case, wait until the day temperature drops.  Given your location, it'll be around mid November when you should start applying your mulch.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin