Check out the book or google Lasagna Gardening techniques.
I did it years ago before we set up our raised bed system. Now i use it for the chickens garden space to grow just greens cover for them to eat as treats - but it will work for veggies and flowers.
It's a no-fail way to establish a...
don't throw out those old workboots - use them as planters for
cactus like hens n' chicks on your porch steps or in your garden.
put a small layer of rocks in the bottom, use reg. planting soil and plant your flower or item of choice. water sparingly for a few weeks as the boot will hold...