Nutrient balances of sugarcane cultivation were analysed during its intensification.
During 1943–1984, pastures and wetlands were replaced by sugarcane in the Cauca river valley.
The positive N balance suggests that N has been historically over applied and wasted.
K and P balances were positive in the early intensification period due to chemical fertilizers.
Later, application of sugarcane residues reduced chemical K and P fertilizers.