The high P fixation capacity of soils rich in x‐ray amorphous minerals has been well documented. Some Andisols in central Guatemala which have received additions of volcanic ash have extraordinarily high extractable P levels with acidic extractant. These ash materials have low fixing capacities but they weather rapidly. This study examined the relationship between different soil P tests on soils from Guatemala. The study area has a strong volcanic influence. Some volcanos are still active, from which the ash being deposited is rich in apatite. Age and composition of the parent materials exert the strongest influence on soil properties. Thirty‐two soils from the southern part of Guatemala were divided according to their classification and soil properties. Chemical methods (Bray I and Mehlich I) were compared to two other soil test techniques (Pi strip and Resin‐strip). Phosphate retention characteristics were also measured. In general, very good correlations were found between all methods on soils that do not have any recent ash influence. On soils with ash deposition containing apatite, Bray I and Mehlich I readily dissolve this Ca‐P compound and gave exaggeratedly high P values. The Pi strip and Resin‐strip methods were more appropriate in estimating available P in all soils irrespective of their properties, suggesting that either of these two methods could be adopted for the purpose of P fertilizer recommendations. The thickness and weathering status of the recent ash deposits vary with the catenary sequence down the volcano and determine soil P fertility management. Phosphorus fixation was lower on soils being rejuvenated by ash depositions, but water retention properties were reduced. On soils with a buried Andisol covered by fresh material on the surface, specific soil management strategies should be adopted. The presence of apatite in volcanic ash influencing soil P availability has not been described in the literature.