The directions are definitely lacking, but the product itself is great once you get it put together! The metal is really sturdy and feels like it will last a long time. The planter box is great because the depth is bigger than most other planters, which allows for more plants or space for plants to grow. I am going to use this to plant cucumbers in the summer so that they will have a strong place to climb, but there are so many other ways to fill the planter box. This is a great purchase and I cant wait to get it outside when it warms up!