Increasing Citrus Absorbic Acid Content (Vitamin C)
Vitamin C helps the body maintain healthy tissues and strong immune system and a cup of orange juice can contain almost 100mg of the vitamin.
Good crop nutrition with balanced supplies of potassium, boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum and zinc provides fruit with higher ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) content.
In lemon this key nutritional property is also improved by application of sulfur.
Crop Nutrition and Ascorbic Acid Content
K, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo and Zn
Nitrogen
As well as causing other issues such as delayed maturity, increased disease susceptibility, excess leaf growth and fruit cracking, excessive nitrogen can also reduce the ascorbic acid content of the fruit.
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Managing TSS / Acid Ratio
The TSS/Acid ratio is a key characteristic determining the taste, texture and feel of fruit segments. It is the sugar/acid ratio which contributes towards giving many fruits their characteristic flavor. It is also an indicator of commercial and sensory...
Managing Citrus Total Soluble Solids (TSS)
The TSS content of the fruit is usually obtained from assessing the degrees Brix of the fruit. It is important that the grower aims to produce an acceptable balance of TSS and fruit acidity (see TSS/Acid ratio).
Role of Potassium in Citrus Production
Alongside nitrogen, potassium is one of the most important nutrients for citrus production. It is needed for enzyme activation, cell division, photosynthesis, photosynthate transport and osmoregulation.
Role of Boron in Citrus Production
Boron is involved in various enzyme systems and in carbohydrate metabolism and translocation. Boron, like calcium also has an important role in cell structure and cell wall integrity.
Role of Zinc in Citrus Production
Deficiency of zinc significantly reduces citrus growth and yield potential.
