Nutrient inputs to soils and their uptake by alfalfa through long-term irrigation with untreated sewage effluent in Mexico

Abstract. The effects of long-term waste water irrigation on soil fertility and nutrient supply to alfalfa ( Medicago sativa ) have been investigated in an area near Mexico City Waste water irrigation has improved the nutrient balance of the soil in respect of total nitrogen and available phosphorus. In contrast Na has displaced Ca and diminished the Ca saturation of the soil. In consequence, Ca in alfalfa tissue has decreased and phosphorus and sodium increased after 80 years of waste water irrigation. Estimates of the N-balance suggest that substantial amounts of N are being lost, probably with consequent eutrophication of the groundwater.