I live in ahistoric home in Annapolis MD and had specific ideas of the rust color needed to match our home.  This steel planter arrives as brand new black steel. And then we controlled. How “rusty” the planter became. wTihin 4 days we had the “look” perfected, so we stopped the application of vinegar and salt, and instead, just enjoy the finished look.  It is very large and that works well for us, as it sits at the edge of our deck where we don’t want anyone falling off.  It is wide and deep, with exact specifications as described.  We are very pleased with this purchase.