Thompsons Garden Centre owner and director Matt O'Malley said with coronavirus restrictions tightening, the centre was selling out of herbs, citrus, blueberries and seedlings as people tried to make their homes

"They're going to have a lot of time on their hands and gardening is something they can do from home."

Mr O'Malley said isolation coupled with recent job losses created problems for mental health.

"Mental health is going to be a big thing as people aren't used to being at home all the time," he said.

"It will be something for a bit of relief."

He said the store was able to remain open because it had 4000 square metres of outdoor space and customers were able to practise social distancing while they browsed.

He said good planting choices for winter were citrus, blueberries, beans, peas and onions.

He said anything from the brassicas family, such as broccoli, kale and cauliflower were also good pics for the coming season.