Nitrogen and potassium increase fruit acidity, whereas calcium and copper will reduce acidity. Other nutrients have little effect.
In trials, increasing the nitrogen rate to 364Kg/ha significantly improved the TSS/acid ratio of the fruit.
Potassium increases the content of organic acids in fruit juice, reducing the TSS/Acid ratio. Thus, the correct potassium regime is important and will differ for the production of sweet oranges, mandarins, or acid lemons.
While copper deficiencies are rare, trials in India indicate that copper reduces acidity and increases the TSS/Acid ratio in mandarins. Excessive use of copper may delay fruit ripening.