Asparagus benefits from a fertilizer application in early spring. Fertilize according to a soil test or add 1 to 2 pounds of a 10-20-10 or 11-15-11 fertilizer per 20 feet of row before growth starts. If a soil test shows that only nitrogen is needed, apply1 pound of a 16-0-0 product or ½ pound of a 30-4-5, 27-3-3 or similar fertilizer per 20 feet of row. Most of these high nitrogen fertilizers are lawn fertilizers but will work well for this purpose if they do not contain a weed preventer or weed killer. Incorporate lightly with a tiller or rake in fertilizer before spears emerge. Fertilize again with a high nitrogen fertilizer at the same rate suggested above after the last harvest. The fertilizer should be watered in with 1/4 inch of water. (Ward Upham)