absolutely love this raised planter and can't wait to get a second one. We are going into our 3rd summer with this guy and it's (knock on wood) holding up great. We've left it outside through northeast winters and as long as you leave the plug open so melted snow & water can drain out, it hasn't expanded/settled as much as I thought. It's a great height, and a really nice big size, we plant about 8 herbs every year including 2 big basil. Going to get a second planter for lettuce & spinach. Love it!