Ron Finley's Urban Gardening Tips: Transform Your Concrete Jungle into a Green Paradise

Have you ever gazed out your window and wished for a slice of green? Do you feel like there's no space for gardening in your urban home? Well, fear not! Ron Finley, also known as the "Gangster Gardener," is here to help you transform your concrete jungle into an oasis of greenery. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of his most valuable tips and tricks on how to create a thriving garden in an urban setting.

Getting ed with Ron Finley's Gardening Tips

The Right Plants

The first step in creating a garden in your urban home is selecting the right plants. Ron Finley suggests choosing plants that are native to your area, as they are better adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Some examples of native plants include sunflowers, marigolds, and herbs such as basil, thyme, and rosemary. These plants are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for beginners.

Choosing Containers

In an urban setting, space is often limited, which means container gardening is the way to go. According to Ron Finley, containers come in all shapes and sizes, so choose one that fits your needs. For example, if you have a small balcony, opt for a hanging planter or a vertical garden. If you have a larger space, choose a raised bed or a container garden on wheels. Whatever you choose, make sure it has good drainage and is made of durable material.

Creating the Ideal Soil Mix

The Importance of Soil Health

Soil health is crucial for the growth and survival of plants. Ron Finley recommends mixing one-third compost, one-third coarse vermiculite, and one-third peat moss to create the perfect soil mix. This mix allows for proper drainage, aeration, and water retention, which are all essential for plant growth.

Composting

Composting is a natural process that breaks down organic matter into nutrient-rich soil. Ron Finley suggests creating your own compost bin using kitchen scraps such as eggshells, coffee grounds, and vegetable peels. Adding compost to your soil mix helps to increase its fertility and overall health.

Watering Techniques

The Right Time to Water

According to Ron Finley, the best time to water your plants is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not at its peak. This helps to reduce water loss through evaporation and ensures that your plants have enough moisture throughout the day.

The Right Amount of Water

Overwatering can be just as harmful to plants as underwatering. Ron Finley recommends watering your plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on their needs. To determine if your plants need water, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.

Fertilizing Your Plants

The Benefits of Natural Fertilizers

Natural fertilizers are a great way to provide your plants with the nutrients they need without harming the environment. Ron Finley suggests using compost tea or liquid seaweed fertilizer to give your plants a boost of nutrients. These natural fertilizers are easy to make and can be applied directly to the soil.

Using Fish Heads as Fertilizer

Yes, you read that correctly! Ron Finley recommends using fish heads as a natural fertilizer for your plants. Fish heads are high in nitrogen and other essential nutrients that plants need to grow. Simply bury the fish head about six inches deep in the soil next to your plant, and watch it thrive!

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Natural Pest Control

Chemical pesticides can harm not only pests but also beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies. Ron Finley suggests using natural pest control methods such as companion planting, which involves growing two or more plants together that have a mutually beneficial relationship. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes helps to repel harmful pests while attracting pollinators.

Preventing Diseases

Prevention is key when it comes to plant diseases. Ron Finley recommends keeping your plants healthy by providing them with proper nutrition, watering them at the right time and amount, and pruning them regularly. You can also prevent the spread of diseases by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands and tools before and after handling your plants.

Harvesting Your Plants

The Right Time to Harvest

Knowing when to harvest your plants is just as important as knowing how to grow them. Ron Finley suggests harvesting your plants when they are at their peak ripeness. For example, tomatoes should be harvested when they are fully red and slightly firm to the touch. If you wait too long, the tomatoes will become overripe and mushy.

Preserving Your Harvest

Preserving your harvest is a great way to enjoy your plants all year round. Ron Finley recommends preserving your harvest by canning, freezing, or dehydrating your fruits and vegetables. These methods help to retain their flavor and nutrients while extending their shelf life.

Gardening Resources

Online Gardening Communities

Joining an online gardening community is a great way to connect with other like-minded individuals who share your passion for gardening. Ron Finley suggests joining Facebook groups or forums such as GardenWeb, Reddit's r/gardening, or Dave's Garden.

Local Gardening Centers

Local gardening centers are a great resource for all your gardening needs. They offer a wide range of plants, tools, and supplies, as well as expert advice on how to care for your plants. Ron Finley recommends visiting your local gardening center and asking for their recommendations.


In Ron Finley's urban gardening tips are a great way to transform your concrete jungle into a green paradise. By selecting the right plants, containers, and soil mix, as well as using proper watering, fertilizing, and pest control techniques, you can create a thriving garden in even the smallest of spaces. Remember to harvest your plants at the right time and preserve them for future enjoyment. If you run into any problems, don't hesitate to reach out to online gardening communities or your local gardening center for help and advice.

FAQs

1. What is companion planting?

Companion planting involves growing two or more plants together that have a mutually beneficial relationship. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes helps to repel harmful pests while attracting pollinators.

2. How often should I water my plants?

Ron Finley recommends watering your plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on their needs. To determine if your plants need water, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.

3. What is the best time to water my plants?

The best time to water your plants is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not at its peak. This helps to reduce water loss through evaporation and ensures that your plants have enough moisture throughout the day.

4. How do I prevent plant diseases?

You can prevent plant diseases by keeping your plants healthy by providing them with proper nutrition, watering them at the right time and amount, and pruning them regularly. You can also prevent the spread of diseases by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands and tools before and after handling your plants.

5. What are some natural fertilizers I can use on my plants?

Ron Finley recommends using compost tea or liquid seaweed fertilizer to give your plants a boost of nutrients. These natural fertilizers are easy to make and can be applied directly to the soil.