Sales of garden compost and seeds up 250% as people give their back yard a makeover in coronavirus lockdown

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Britons cooped up at home have been turning to gardening as a way to pass the time while in coronavirus quarantine.

Sales of compost and seeds are just some items to have seen a spike in recent weeks as people stock up on essentials to give their outdoor areas a makeover during the lockdown.

According to The Guardian, gardening centres experienced an increase in trade before they were forced to close after government measures called for all but essential businesses to shut up shop.

The Blue Diamond Group - who have 37 outlets around the UK - experienced a boost the day after people were urged to work from home that was 64% higher than in 2019.

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Rates of customers purchasing compost and seeds were up by 250%, while propagation products saw a rise of 150%.

Dobbies, the country’s biggest garden centre chain, has witnessed large numbers of shoppers getting their hands on hoes, rakes, hand tools and secateurs.

Meanwhile, gardening brand Sarah Raven, has temporarily stopped taking orders for seeds and gardening kits after an sharp increase in demand - but are still sending out plants and bulbs.

People have been sharing their green-fingered activities, while practicing social distancing, on Twitter.

Read more: Easiest ways to get children into gardening

Sharing a picture of an assortment of plant pots, one person wrote: “Day 14: I have been growing these flowers, herbs and cuttings at home and soon after the last frost they will move to what will become our little garden.

“Learning a lot about gardening I guess. Stay home, grow a garden big or small and beat the coronavirus.”

Another thrifty social media user revealed how she was gardening on a budget, sharing: “Gardening on a budget during this coronavirus crisis.

“Most of us live on a tight budget, but growing our food shouldn't be. I re-use any containers on hand: fruit containers, egg cartons, etc... I then transfer them to a raised bed, or the ground. I learn during the process.”

Read more: Garden tools for beginners - 10 essentials to kick-start your green-fingered journey

It comes as the easiest ways to get children involved in gardening have been revealed.

These include getting your kids to help you grow fruit and veg - and you don’t need a lot of space.

Louise Golden, resident gardening expert at Dobbies Garden Centres, said: “Many don’t require much space at all, with containers, window boxes and wall planters all making great mini vegetable gardens and tumbling varieties of cherry tomatoes growing happily in hanging baskets.”

4 places you can still buy compost online

Robert Dyas | Shop here

The Miracle-Gro Houseplant & Potting Compost is perfect for seedlings, cuttings, herbs, houseplants and patio pots. Robert Dyas is still offering delivery so you can order it straight your door.

Sutton Seeds | Shop here

Our top pick: All-Purpose Compost | £12.99 from Sutton Seeds

The All-Purpose compost is a high specification mix, made to the same formulation as professional nursery mixes, containINH essential plant nutrients and trace elements.

Blooming Direct | Shop here

Made from the highest quality ingredients where the exact formulation is trialed, tested and scientifically proven to encourage plants to grow optimally and reach their full potential. Blooming Direct doesn’t offer click and collect but will deliver across the UK.

B&Q | Shop here

B&Q isn’t currently offering delivery but they are offering a plethora of affordable compost options and click & collect at many of their stores around the UK.