Among all vegetables, the most favorite are tomatoes, among which, discovered by many gardeners, is the Sherkhan tomato. And those who were previously in constant search for the most productive and beautiful tomatoes, growing this variety, remain satisfied.
Basic properties and productivity
Sherkhan tomatoes are an early ripening variety; the harvest can be obtained in 90-105 days. It is classified as a determinate plant: that is, it is a low-growing variety, with a maximum height of 50-60 cm.
Grows well in central and southern Russia, Moldova and Ukraine. In the northern regions, it is advisable to plant in greenhouses. Tomatoes are suitable for consumption in salads, fresh, as well as for pickling and fresh canning.
The yield is about 9-10 kg per square meter.
Description of the variety has the following characteristics:
- The tomato stem is developed, the leaves are dark green, the inflorescences are simple.
- Grows well in open ground, but can also grow in greenhouses. This plant is different in that it stops growing after the formation of 4-6 clusters. If desired, it is tied to a trellis or stakes; the stepsons do not need to be removed. They are pinched in order to get a harvest at the same time.
- Determinate varieties are good because they do not spend a large amount of nutrients on the stem, and give most of the nutrition to the ripening of the crop.
- The fruits are ovoid in shape with 3-4 chambers, with weak ribbing, a predominant red color with golden streaks, and not particularly dense. Their weight is about 55-80 grams.
- The first fruits are much larger and can weigh up to 120 grams. Tomatoes have a sweet and sour taste.
Caring for seedlings and adult tomatoes
It is recommended to sow seedlings in mid-March or early April. It is necessary to approximately calculate 2 months before planting plants in the ground.
It is advisable to pre-soak the seeds for 8-12 hours, treat them with a solution of potassium permanganate, and then lightly dry them.
For sowing, take special ready-made soil for seedlings of tomatoes and peppers. It must be scattered into containers for seedlings, at least 7-10 cm deep. Draw grooves and sow the seeds at a distance of 2 cm from each other.
Then moisten the soil, cover with glass or film, and place in a warm place, closer to the heating radiators. The first shoots will appear if the seeds were soaked for 3-4 days, with dry sowing - after about 7-8 days.
As soon as the shoots appear, it is advisable to place the containers in a well-lit place, preferably a windowsill. The film must be removed and the soil moisture monitored. After the first true leaves appear, the seedlings are picked and planted in containers at a distance of 7-9 cm, or even better: if planted in separate cups.
Planting in a greenhouse
When planting plants in a greenhouse, the roots are not damaged, and the plants take root in the new location much faster. This usually occurs at the end of April and beginning of May.
At that time, the plants are planted in a greenhouse so that they become stronger and receive ultraviolet rays. They are planted 6 plants per 1 square. meter. For planting, dig holes, fill them with humus and plant one plant at a time. Further care consists of timely watering, loosening the soil, and applying fertilizers.
To obtain a stable harvest, it is necessary to form 3 stems for each plant. To do this, 2 stepsons must be left below the main flower brush; all others are recommended to be removed. In order for a more developed root system to form, it is recommended to hill up the tomatoes after rains; this can be done 2 times in the first month of planting.
Brief reviews about the Sherkhan variety
Tomatoes of this variety mostly have positive reviews. Especially lovers of various varieties like the beautiful appearance of tomatoes and their excellent taste. Its versatility in use is attractive, as well as the fact that the harvest can be obtained in late July and early August.