Orange Russian 117

Tomato

Zone 8b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Orange Russian 117

🌱 85d to harvest Determinate

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Orange Russian 117 is an oxheart tomato that ripens to a luminous amber-orange, with a softly rib…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 2nd
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 18th
Harvest Begins	Aug 11th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Determinate
Support Needed	Cage
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes) like ‘Orange Russian 117’, and how can I control it at home?

Watch for early blight and Septoria leaf spot, which show up as dark spots on older leaves that spread upward. Remove and discard affected leaves, avoid wetting foliage, and improve airflow with wider spacing and pruning of lower leaves. If it keeps recurring, use a labeled fungicide for tomatoes (follow the product schedule) starting as soon as spots appear.

How often should I water Solanum lycopersicum during the main growing phase to prevent problems?

During active flowering and fruiting, keep soil evenly moist—about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week total, delivered slowly at the base. Let the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil dry slightly between waterings to reduce disease, but don’t let the root zone fully dry out, which can trigger blossom-end rot and fruit cracking.

How can I tell when ‘Orange Russian 117’ is ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored to a consistent orange and feel slightly firm with a gentle give when squeezed. Pick at peak ripeness (typically around 85 days) because these tomatoes continue to develop sweetness on the vine and will soften quickly after full color.

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Orange Russian 117 is an oxheart tomato that ripens to a luminous amber-orange, with a softly ribbed, heart-shaped silhouette that feels substantial in the hand. The flesh is tender and juicy, balancing sweet, mellow flavor with a gentle tang—ideal for showcasing in bold, colorful slices, vibrant sauces, and quick pickling. Grow it for its distinctive color and old-world presence: a rewarding 85-day season that brings a harvest as beautiful as it is delicious.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 9 days first.

Expert Note

For the best oxheart flavor and fruit size, transplant only when soil is consistently warm (about 60°F+) and keep moisture steady to avoid cracking.