Well, I also like to add Milorganite to the garden (that may help disguise the smell of the alfalfa), and when I have time when adding Alfalfa pellets I like to use a rake or hoe and work it into the ground or at least under the mulch. The main reason I do that is just to help it have more contact with the ground so the earthworms can reach it easier.

That's good advice, thank you, Larry.

The reason I don't buy pellets and make a tea (apart from not wanting pellets around anyway - this place is Rat Haven) is because I am lazy. The garden is enough work as it is. I don't even make compost tea, although I should. (I even bought a brewer for it... but to set it up, I need to clean out a shed... not happening anytime soon...)

I get my alfalfa meal from a nursery, and it comes in small bags, so it is probably not what you call cost effective. It can also be purchased online through Amazon. The cheapest that I have seen it there is 15 # for $18. (Interestingly enough, you can also get kelp meal from Amazon. )

I have not been able to find any prime shipping on amazon. A 40 lb. bag is 34 bucks, but shipping is 29. Im going to check a nursery.