GARDENING / Shaping a Flower Bed

To mark out an elliptical curve, measure out and mark with pegs the long axis (A-B). Knot a string round each end. Mark the mid-point (C) and insert post X at right angles to it, placing X at the desired widest point of the bed. Remove string and fold in two to find the centre point. Loop this over X. Stretch string so the ends come to line A-B. Slip each knotted end over a peg (P and Q). Take a loose peg (R), keep string taut and scratch the shape of an ellipse.

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