Cultivation and incorporation of Crotalaria juncea L. in a sugarcane culture soil in the Chontalpa, Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

Objetive: to analyze in a sugarcane soil, the yield in aerial biomass of sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) (Fabaceae) with and without nitrogen fertilization in two periods of cut (40 and 60 d), and to evaluate the changes in its fertility in two dates subsequent to its incorporation

Design/methodology/approach: two fertilization treatments NPK 00-60-60 and 120-60-60 and a control were tested. At the beginning of the experiment, 15 and 30 days after the harvest and incorporation of the sunn hemp, compound samples of soil were taken (0-30 cm) to analyze them chemically.

Results: in total dry weight (PS) and the aerial components (stem and leaves) of the legume there were no significant differences between treatments, their average yield was 7.08 and 7.16 t ha-1 for the 40 and 60 day cuts, respectively. The N did not show significant differences between doses or cutting season; their average accumulation was 151.61 and 176.37 kg ha-1 for the respective cuts. The P showed higher values and significant differences in the fertilized treatments. Soil analysis before planting showed optimal properties, except for the low OM content.

Study limitations/implications: the sensitivity of some of its components may make it difficult to detect changes in OM; the OSC is an alternative and easily measurable parameter, although it is also advisable to follow up in the long term.

Findings/Conclusions: the incorporation of sunn hemp to the soil is a viable and promising alternative to restore the N used and incorporate the environment, in addition, OM improves its physical, chemical and biological fertility.