Tomatoes variety Shirley

[trish1234567]

I am growing the above variety outside in a sheltered position and the plants are absolutely abundant with tomatoes. If fact, they appear to be too heavy for the plants. They have reach over four feet and I am taking the tops off now. My problem is they do not appear to be ripening. Only one has so far turned very slightly orange. Is 'Shirley' a late variety? Should I take some of the leaves off?

They are in front of a four feet fence facing north and are therefore not getting full sun. Although I do not regularly grow tomatoes, I do remember once having to make lots and lots of green chutney! I am watering twice a day and feeding occasionally. Any advice please. Thanks.

[emeritus]

I wouldnt worry just yet. If one is starting to turn they will start to ripen quite quickly. My Shirley tomatoes are just starting to ripen and I am South Facing.

[brenda]

You can take off the leaves up to the point of the first truss of tomatoes, if you have not done so already.If you have got four branches with tomatoes on , going upwards from the bottom, you can now pinch out the main stem at the top if you have not done so already.They sound good to me.

[trish1234567]

Hi - thankyou both for your encouragement. Will follow the advice. I'm feeling far more optimistic now and actually looking forward to a good crop!