Prosopis chilensis offers several environmental benefits. Like other legumes, Prosopis chilensis fixes atmospheric nitrogen in its root nodules. When planted as a hedgerow it provides shade for fruit trees, field crops, to the homesteads and to livestock. Due to its deep rooting habit, it is a candidate for erosion control and soil stabilization in arid lands. It could be used as a barrier plant to form stock-proof hedgerows able to provide a perennial source of pods and firewood. Grasses and other plants have been said to grow better in association with Prosopis chilensis, benefiting from shelter, humus and nitrogen enrichment of the soil. Its use in intercropping and in agroforestry systems could be valuable (Orwa et al., 2009).
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