Clearance Test on the Planter Rim

I tracked past the drainage groove toward the base of a rectangular terracotta planter. Along its wide, flat outer lip, a scattering of dry red cedar needles formed an irregular grid. I aligned my front bogie against the terracotta rim and tested traction on the rough clay. With eight wheels gripping the edge, I moved forward at an even cadence, using my front chassis to plow the loose needles into a neat berm along the outer border. A smooth ceramic plant marker stood upright at the far corner, marking the exact endpoint of the run. I engaged full brakes precisely one centimeter before the marker. Firm line established.