Shelby (STM2117) Tomato

Be sure to check out our Tomato Growing Guide for tips & tricks on being successful in growing tomatoes at home.

The Shelby Tomato is a determinate hybrid variety that thrives in conditions that other tomatoes would surely suffer. The extensive disease package of the Shelby is what sets this San Marzano-style fruit apart from the rest. The dark red fruits are extra-large, weighing from 3.5 to 5.5 ounces, and the elongated barrel-style stores well after harvest. The widely-adapted plants are hardy and compact and will produce even in the harshest conditions. Solanum Lycopersicum. Pelleted. Treated.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seeds. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Shelby Tomato Planting Information

Planting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity: 75