Hi, what are the best lettuce varieties to grow in winter? I live in Hokitika on the West Coast. Thanks.

Hi Joan, the best cold hardy winter lettuce varieties are Cos, Tom Thumb, Little Gem, Lamb's Ear lettuce, Corn Salad, loose leaf varieties such as oak leaf green and red, mesclun winter greens, there is a hearting variety called Imperial Triumph that is cold tolerant. I prefer to grow the loose leaf varieties in winter that I can pick and don't have to harvest the whole plant. If the weather gets too wet and wild, try covering the plants with a cloche or frame to give them some protection. Check out your local garden centre, all the varieties available there will be seasonally appropriate. Lianne, Tui Team.