Description of giant tomatoes Siberian Shan'gi and recommendations for growing the variety

The Siberian Shan'gi tomato is a modern variety bred specifically for regions with challenging climates. In risky farming zones, these tomatoes are capable of producing consistent yields despite the vagaries of the weather. Besides their resistance to temperature fluctuations, these tomatoes have a number of other properties that have made them popular among gardeners.

General properties of the variety

This mid-early variety, with fruit ripening 110 days after sowing, can be grown in greenhouses, and in warmer regions (Altai, Western Siberia) in open ground. During cold seasons, ripened tomatoes can only be grown indoors, but even unripe tomatoes ripen well in boxes at room temperature.

Each bush produces a high yield: up to 10 kg of tomatoes can be harvested from a single plant. The bush is vigorous, prone to extensive branching, and indeterminate. It reaches a height of 1.5-1.7 m. Each bush produces 4-6 clusters with 3-5 fruits each. The variety's high yield is due to the large size of the tomatoes.

Plants need to be tied to a support or trellis. For good fruiting, it's recommended to train the bush to one or two stems. Side shoots should be removed to avoid crowding the planting. To ensure good ventilation, remove some of the leaves below one or two fruit clusters.

The description of the Siberian Shan'gi variety describes these tomatoes as undemanding in terms of growing conditions. They are well suited for both beginners and busy homeowners who only visit their dacha once a week. During dry periods, watering them thoroughly once every 5-7 days is sufficient.

Siberian Shan'gi tomatoes easily tolerate greenhouse heat, virtually never losing buds or fruit. They are resistant to most fungal diseases and require no chemical treatments against fusarium, early blight, or late blight.

Amazing fruits

Those who plant the Sibirskie Shan'gi variety for the first time are amazed by the incredibly beautiful and large fruits. Each tomato averages 500-600 g, with record-breaking ones reaching 800-900 g. These tomatoes make a perfect salad for the whole family.

The tomato's shape is remarkable: the flat, round "cakes" have deep ribbing, reminiscent of the folds on a potato or meat pie common in Siberia. This resemblance influenced the choice of the variety's name.

The skin of these giant tomatoes is firm, crimson or deep pink, and free of greenish spots. They are resistant to cracking and transport well. Ripe tomatoes keep well, not softening like most large-fruited tomatoes.

Flavor rating: 4.5-5 on a 5-point scale. The fleshy pulp has a dense and tender consistency, is juicy, and is virtually seedless. Sugar content varies depending on growing conditions. During cold seasons, Siberian Shan'gi tomatoes grown outdoors may have a sour taste, but greenhouse tomatoes have a distinct sweet flavor and a pleasant tomato aroma.

Large-fruited tomatoes are primarily used as salad tomatoes. They're great eaten fresh, in salads, or as sandwich slices. They can also be used as a seasoning for soups and hot sauces.

If desired, Siberian Shan'gi tomatoes can be processed into lecho and sauces. Gardeners report that the resulting preserves are delicious, but the pink flesh may not be vibrant enough, so these tomatoes are mixed with brightly colored varieties.

How to grow giant fruits?

Sow seeds for seedlings 60 days before the expected planting date. Once the seedlings emerge and have developed 2-3 true leaves, transplant them into 10x10 cm (4x4 in) rows.

After planting in the greenhouse, fertilize the seedlings. The first feeding is done 7-10 days after the plants have established themselves. Fertilizer is applied with irrigation water, 0.5 liters of solution per tomato plant. To prepare the nutrient solution, use a general-purpose mineral fertilizer (Kemira, Signor Tomato, nitroammophoska, etc.) according to the instructions.

The next feeding is done when the first flowering cluster appears. Add 1 liter of superphosphate solution (1 tablespoon per bucket of water) and potassium nitrate (1 teaspoon per bucket) to each bush. Repeat this feeding after 2 weeks. For good fruit development, ensure adequate moisture: water once every 5-7 days, 10 liters per bush.

If you water more frequently, reduce the amount of liquid. Excess moisture makes the fruit taste unappetizing and watery.

By following simple care guidelines for Siberian Shan'gi tomatoes, gardeners can enjoy large, tasty tomatoes as early as mid-July. Unripe tomatoes harvested at the end of the season should be placed in single-layer boxes in a dark place with a temperature of around 20°C.