Orange Russian Tomato: A Flavorful Addition to Your Garden
Orange Russian tomato is a unique and flavorful variety of tomato that is known for its large, heart-shaped fruits and beautiful two-toned coloring. This tomato is medium-mild, slightly fruity, and sweetish, making it a delicious addition to any dish that calls for tomatoes.
In this article, we will explore the history and origin of Orange Russian tomato, how to grow and care for these plants, and common issues and solutions that you may encounter when cultivating this variety.
Orange Russian tomato is a California-bred variety that has become popular among gardeners and tomato enthusiasts alike. This tomato is a cross between Russian 117 and Georgia Streak, and it is known for its meaty texture, red center, and yellow-orange color with a pink blush.
Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you can enjoy growing and harvesting these delicious tomatoes in your own backyard. In the following sections, we will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for Orange Russian tomatoes.
Key Takeaways
- Orange Russian tomato is a unique and flavorful variety that is known for its large, heart-shaped fruits and beautiful two-toned coloring.
- This tomato is a California-bred variety that is a cross between Russian 117 and Georgia Streak, and it is known for its meaty texture, red center, and yellow-orange color with a pink blush.
- Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you can enjoy growing and harvesting these delicious tomatoes in your own backyard.
Orange Russian Tomato
If you are a tomato lover, you should definitely try growing Orange Russian tomatoes. This unique variety stands out with its bright orange and red color, and its heart-shaped meaty fruit. Here are some key features of this tomato:
- Flavor: Orange Russian tomatoes have a medium-mild, slightly fruity, and sweetish taste. They are well-balanced, meaty, and delicious.
- Size: These tomatoes are large, weighing between 1-2 pounds each. They are perfect for slicing, dicing, or using in your favorite recipes.
- Color: As the name suggests, Orange Russian tomatoes have a bright orange and red color. They are bi-colored, with a yellow-orange exterior and a pink blush.
- Shape: This variety is an oxheart tomato, meaning it has a heart-shaped form. It is wider at the top and tapers down to a point at the bottom.
- Plant Type: Orange Russian tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season. They require support and can grow up to 6 feet tall.
- Growing Conditions: These tomatoes prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be grown in the ground or in containers. They require regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Orange Russian tomatoes are not only beautiful to look at, but they are also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Additionally, they are low in calories and fat.
If you are interested in growing Orange Russian tomatoes, you can purchase seeds from various online retailers. They are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. With a little bit of care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these delicious and unique tomatoes.
History and Origin of Orange Russian Tomato
If you’re a tomato lover, you might have heard about the Orange Russian tomato. This unique variety of tomato is an oxheart tomato with a flaming orange-red color that is sure to catch your attention. But where did this tomato come from? Let’s explore the history and origin of the Orange Russian tomato.
The Orange Russian tomato was first bred by Jeff Dawson in the mid-1990s. He crossed two tomato varieties, the ‘Russian 117’ and ‘Georgia Streak,’ to create this variety. The tomato’s real name is ‘Orange Russian 117,’ but the number is often left out. As a collector’s variety, this unique oxheart tomato has become a firm favorite with tomato lovers all over the world.
The ‘Orange Russian’ variety comes from the USA, more precisely from California. It was selected by Jeff Dawson, who is a renowned tomato breeder. Dawson has been breeding tomatoes for over 30 years, and his work has resulted in some of the most popular tomato varieties available today.
The ‘Russian 117’ and ‘Georgia Streak’ varieties that were used to create the Orange Russian tomato are both heirloom varieties. Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, meaning that they are pollinated naturally by insects, birds, or the wind. They are known for their unique flavors, colors, and shapes, and are often preferred by gardeners and chefs over hybrid varieties.
The Orange Russian tomato is not only beautiful to look at, but it also has a great taste. It has a medium-mild, slightly fruity, and sweetish flavor that makes it perfect for salads, sauces, and sandwiches. The flesh of the tomato is very meaty, with a red center, and it has a very pleasant finish.
Growing Orange Russian Tomatoes
If you’re interested in growing Orange Russian tomatoes, you’re in for a treat. These beautiful bi-color fruits are not only stunning to look at, but they also have a delicious taste that’s medium-mild, slightly fruity, and sweetish. Here are some tips for growing Orange Russian tomatoes.
Planting
Orange Russian tomatoes are best grown indoors, about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. They require bottom heat for good germination, so make sure you have a heat mat or a warm spot to place them.
Once the last frost has passed, transplant the seedlings to your garden. Make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart.
Watering
Tomatoes need consistent watering to thrive, so make sure you water them deeply and regularly.
Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Water in the morning or evening when it’s cooler, and use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to keep the soil moist.
Fertilizing
Orange Russian tomatoes are heavy feeders, so make sure you fertilize them regularly.
Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use organic fertilizers like compost, fish emulsion, or bone meal.
Pruning
Tomatoes grow best when they have good air circulation and light penetration. Prune your Orange Russian tomatoes regularly to remove the suckers and any diseased or damaged leaves. This will help prevent fungal diseases and improve the quality of the fruit.
Harvesting
Orange Russian tomatoes are ready to harvest when they’re fully ripe and have a bright orange-red color. They should feel firm but slightly soft to the touch.
Pick them carefully to avoid damaging the fruit or the plant. Use them fresh in salads, sandwiches, or sauces, or store them in a cool, dry place for later use.
Growing Orange Russian tomatoes can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these beautiful and delicious fruits.
Caring for Orange Russian Tomatoes
Growing Orange Russian tomatoes is a rewarding experience, but it requires some care and attention to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest. Here are some tips to help you care for your Orange Russian tomato plants:
Planting
- Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
- Plant your Orange Russian tomato seedlings about 2-3 feet apart from each other.
- Water your seedlings immediately after planting to help them establish their roots.
Watering
- Water your Orange Russian tomato plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water your plants, as this will help prevent water from splashing onto the leaves.
Fertilizing
- Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, to feed your Orange Russian tomato plants every two weeks.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
- Pinch off the suckers that develop in the crotch between the main stem and the branches to encourage the plant to put its energy into fruit production.
- Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Pests and Diseases
- Keep an eye out for common tomato pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Use natural methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, to control these pests.
- Prevent fungal diseases, such as early blight and late blight, by watering at the base of the plant and avoiding getting water on the leaves.
- If you notice any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or black spots on the fruit, remove the affected plant or fruit immediately to prevent the disease from spreading.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Orange Russian tomato plants are healthy and productive. Happy gardening!
Common Issues and Solutions
Growing Orange Russian tomatoes can be a rewarding experience, but like any plant, they are susceptible to problems.
Here are some common issues you may encounter and solutions to help you get the most out of your harvest.
Blossom Drop
Blossom drop occurs when the flowers on the tomato plant fall off before they are pollinated and turn into fruit.
Temperature fluctuations cause blossom drop. Tomatoes need night temperatures between 55 to 75 degrees F in order to retain their flowers. If the temperatures fall outside this range, blossom drop occurs.
To prevent blossom drop, make sure to keep the temperature within the optimal range and avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature changes.
Tomato Hornworms
Tomato hornworms are large green caterpillars that can cause significant damage to your Orange Russian tomato plants.
They can be identified by their large size and the horn-like protrusion on their back. To control tomato hornworms, you can handpick them off the plant or use an organic pesticide like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Blossom End Rot
Blossom end rot is a common problem that occurs when the bottom of the tomato fruit turns black and becomes sunken. This is caused by a calcium deficiency in the plant.
To prevent blossom end rot, make sure to keep the soil consistently moist and use mulch to help retain moisture. You can also use a calcium spray or add calcium to the soil to help prevent this problem.
Cracking
Cracking occurs when the skin of the tomato fruit splits open. This is caused by fluctuations in soil moisture levels.
To prevent cracking, make sure to keep the soil consistently moist and avoid letting it dry out completely. You can also use mulch to help retain moisture in the soil.
Early Blight
Early blight is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of the tomato plant to turn yellow and develop brown spots.
To prevent early blight, make sure to plant your Orange Russian tomatoes in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering. You can also use an organic fungicide like copper spray to help prevent this disease.
By being aware of these common issues and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest of Orange Russian tomatoes.
Harvesting and Using Orange Russian Tomatoes
Congratulations, you’ve successfully grown Orange Russian tomatoes! Now it’s time to harvest and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Harvesting
Orange Russian tomatoes are typically ready to harvest in mid to late season, around mid-August. Look for the fruit to turn a vibrant orange color and feel slightly soft to the touch. The tomatoes should come off the vine with a slight twist or tug.
When harvesting, be sure to handle the fruit gently to avoid bruising or damaging the delicate skin. It’s best to use a pair of pruning shears or scissors to cut the stem about 1/4 inch above the fruit.
Using
Orange Russian tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for how to use your harvest:
- Sliced: Enjoy the sweet, juicy flavor of Orange Russian tomatoes simply sliced and sprinkled with a little salt and pepper.
- Salads: Add sliced Orange Russian tomatoes to your favorite salad for a burst of color and flavor.
- Sauces: Use fresh Orange Russian tomatoes to make a delicious tomato sauce for pasta or pizza.
- Salsas: Combine diced Orange Russian tomatoes with onion, jalapeno, and cilantro for a fresh and flavorful salsa.
- Canning: Preserve your harvest by canning Orange Russian tomatoes for use throughout the year.
Storing
Freshly harvested Orange Russian tomatoes can be stored at room temperature for a few days.
For longer storage, place the fruit in a paper bag and store in a cool, dark place. Avoid storing the fruit in the refrigerator, as this can cause the texture and flavor to deteriorate.
Nutrition
Orange Russian tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Enjoy your harvest of Orange Russian tomatoes and savor the sweet, fruity flavor of this heirloom variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some other types of orange tomatoes?
There are several other types of orange tomatoes that you might be interested in trying. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Jaune Flamme: A French heirloom tomato with a bright orange color and a fruity flavor.
- Persimmon: A large, meaty tomato with a deep orange color and a sweet flavor.
- Kellogg’s Breakfast: A beefsteak tomato with a bright orange color and a tangy flavor.
- Aunt Ruby’s German Green: A bi-color tomato with green and orange stripes and a sweet, fruity flavor.
What makes the Virginia Sweets Tomato unique?
The Virginia Sweets Tomato is a bi-color tomato that has a unique flavor profile. It has a sweet, fruity taste that is balanced out by a slightly acidic finish.
This tomato is also known for its beautiful appearance, with yellow and red streaks running throughout the flesh.
What are the top 10 heirloom tomatoes?
There are many different types of heirloom tomatoes to choose from, but some of the most popular varieties include:
- Brandywine
- Cherokee Purple
- Green Zebra
- Mortgage Lifter
- Black Krim
- Yellow Pear
- San Marzano
- Hillbilly
- Black Cherry
- German Johnson
How tall do Oxheart Tomatoes grow?
Oxheart Tomatoes are known for their large size and heart-shaped appearance. They can grow to be quite tall, with some varieties reaching up to 6 feet in height. However, the average height for most Oxheart Tomato plants is around 4-5 feet.
Are Russian tomatoes determinate or indeterminate?
Russian tomatoes can be either determinate or indeterminate, depending on the variety. Determinate tomatoes tend to grow in a more compact, bush-like shape and produce their fruit all at once.
Indeterminate tomatoes, on the other hand, continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season.
What is the sweetest variety of bicolor tomato?
The sweetest variety of bicolor tomato is a matter of personal preference, but some of the most popular sweet bicolor tomatoes include:
- Pineapple: A large, yellow tomato with red streaks and a sweet, tropical flavor.
- Striped German: A bi-color tomato with yellow and red stripes and a sweet, fruity flavor.
- Cherokee Green: A green tomato with a yellowish tinge and a sweet, tangy flavor.
