ABSTRACT
Managed orchards of selected varieties of mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa and related species) offers an unexploited potential as a low water, nitrogen, and tillage requiring protein and carbohydrate source for humans and/or livestock. Mesquite pods which contain approximately 13% protein and which may contain up to 30% sucrose, were the major food staple for the Indians in the southern California deserts.
An orchard of mesquite trees would obviate the need for tillage and prevent wind and water soil erosion. Since mesquite's root nodules convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form suitable for plant use, nitrogenous fertilizers from fossil fuels would not be required. Mesquite's woody habit and long tap root, which can often reach ground water at depths of 20 m, confer an unusually exceptional drought resistance. After trees pass their age of maximum pod productivity, the wood may be used as a fuel source.
The literature suggests that mature mesquite orchards receiving no irrigation or nitrogen after establishment, may yield 4,000 to 10,000 kg/ha in regions where there is groundwater or 250-500 mm annual rainfall.
