A question about mulching

[Generatenewname]

So I saw Monty’s bit on mulching on GWs.

My perennials haven’t popped through yet or are only just emerging. So how do I mulch? Just spread it over the top and hope they fight their way through? Or wait for them to emerge and mulch around?
Thanks!

It's easier if you mulch over the top and let them fight through it. But mulching around is fine too.

Thank you!

I mulched my back borders a few weeks ago. I mulched over perenials, or sort of around those that has already made a good appearance.They are all now showing through and fought there way through fine.