Young Asparagus shoots through rich soil

Asparagus needs lots of nutrients to properly grow, and fertilizers can provide the extra nutrients that asparagus needs to grow quickly and fully.

The use of fertilizer depends on the current nutrient content of your soil. To be certain, the best thing is to have your soil tested. In addition to organic matter, 1.2 pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer should be broadcast per 100 square feet prior to planting. If your soil is very acidic you should add lime as well. If you can’t get a soil test, just go ahead and use a balanced fertilizer.

In the fall when you prune your asparagus, pull back the mulch and apply high quality compost a few inches away from the plant. In the spring apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10, 12-12-12, or 15-15-15) at the rate of 2 pounds per 100 square feet and incorporate into the soil.

Do you fertilize your asparagus plants? What type of fertilizer do you use? How often do you fertilize? Please tell us exactly how and when you fertilize your asparagus plants.