As we approach spring and warmer weather in Greater Manchester, many green-fingered residents will be thinking about sprucing up their gardens.
But as the national lockdown is still in place, with restrictions on leaving home, you could be left wondering whether it's possible to head out to garden centres.
Under the rules, certain businesses have had to close while others have been permitted to stay open following Covid-secure guidelines.
They have been able to do so because they offer 'essential goods and services' - which includes garden centres.
The rules state: "Essential retail such as food shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, garden centres, building merchants and suppliers of building products and off-licences" can remain open.
Market stalls selling essential retail may also stay open along with laundrettes, dry cleaners, agricultural supplies shops, and places offering repair services, among others.
Under government guidance, it's also advised to stay local from March 29, therefore you should only be visiting your local garden centre, not one further afield.
While some have adjoined cafes and restaurants, these areas will be closed as hospitality across England is unable to open.
However from April 12 at the earliest, garden centres with cafes offering outdoor seating will be able to reopen to customers.
In Step 2, outdoor hospitality can resume with table service for up to two households or the rule of six, while non-essential retail can also open up.
In Step 3 from May 17, indoor hospitality can reopen.
Check your local garden centre for opening times before travelling.
