Four rates of phosphorus were knife applied before alfalfa planting in 2001. In 2003 composted manure was applied at two rates and two rates of phosphorus fertilizer were applied broadcast to established alfalfa for three years. Alfalfa was harvested three times a year through 2006. Both fertilizer P and compost increased yields compared to the control. Preplant knife P did not affect yields. Soiltest P was increased by both fertilizer P and compost, as was P recovery in the plant.