Establishment potential of Prosopis laevigata (multiple-use tree), in soils of the irrigation district 028 Tulancingo, Hidalgo

Abstract

This work was developed in Irrigation District 028 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, where wastewater is used to irrigate forage crops. This practice, in addition to being useful for production, has caused problems such as soil salinity. In addition, there are problems for rolling irrigation, this due to the topography of the place. In response to this situation, the present work aimed to determine the potential for establishing a multiple-use forest species suitable to the present conditions, as an alternative for agricultural production. Regarding saline soils and with problems for irrigation, a forest species with characteristics of tolerance to salinity, droughts and potential for multiple use was included. The soils do not present deficiencies for K, P, Ca, Mg and Zn, however; the percentages of organic matter and inorganic nitrogen content were poor, the texture was frank and the concentration of heavy metals was low. Based on the soil analysis and the opinions of the producers who participated in the workshops, the present work proposed and established two demonstration plots of mesquite (Prosopis laevigata (Willd.) MC Johnst), with a design of trees in boundaries, such as an option to contribute to the cultivation in saline soils and soils where irrigation is difficult due to the topography of the place. In addition, mesquite survival was evaluated on a monthly basis for three months, which was 100% in El jagüey del cerro, and 90% in Santa Ana, which indicates that there are no adaptability problems in these soils. It is concluded that mesquite is a viable alternative for producers, with or without problems in their plots, which will allow them to dedicate part of these to mesquite cultivation.