Physical and chemical properties of soils irrigated with vinasses for the cultivation of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) in the central region of Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the physical and chemical properties of a soil irrigated with vinasse for two years (+V), compared with a soil without vinasse (-V) application.Design/Methodology/Approach: The following parameters were evaluated for both agroecosystems: texture, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), nitrate (NO 3 ), and total nitrogen (TN). The evaluation followed the standardized methods established in NOM-021-SEMARNAT-2000.Results: There were no significant changes (p > 0.05) in the soil’s pH and electrical conductivity. However, the application of vinasse significantly increased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of TN (1.52%), K (112.00 mg L -1 ), and OM (4.52%) in relation to soils - V (0.78%, 25.60 mg L -1 , 7.40 mg L-1 , and 2.75%, respectively). Study Limitations/Implications: There are few studies about the contributions and the physical and chemical effects of soil irrigation with vinasses in the State of Veracruz.Findings/Conclusions: Even though vinasse had a positive effect on the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil, the mineral fertilization program must be reformulated to increase the K and P concentration in soils with silt loam texture. In addition, we recommend adjusting and normalizing the dose of N that vinasse can provide to complement conventional fertilizers.