No higher than the heal of your hand, generally 2-4 inches. If using finely textured or double shredded mulch, use 1-2 inches because these materials allow less oxygen to the root zone. Not against the trunk – keep all mulch 3-4 inches away from the trunk of the tree...

Any time you plant, add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and prevent insects and weeds. Keep the mulch away from the base of the plant however, instead mulching only to the "drip line" -- the outside of the leaves. Also spread mulch over any bare spots. Keep in...

Mulch prevents water and wind erosion and stabilizes soil temperatures (warmer in winter, cooler in summer under mulch). It also reduces evaporation of moisture from the soil, reduces weed competition with landscape plants, and prevents damage to trees and shrubs...