Flower Bed Ideas- Please Help!

[cheldini]

I just moved into a house in Zone 9b. There is a flower bed that runs along the ground parallel to the porch. It's somewhat narrow (I don't have measuring tape currently), not raised, and is currently covered with gravel and weeds. I'd like to clear it out and do something cute with it, but I don't really have experience with gardening. I was wondering if anyone has any good ideas for flowers/plants for a nice arrangement. I've already done Google searches for different flowers for my area, but I'm not very creative-minded and don't know what would look good together. Thanks so much!

 

[Mark56]

What soil type do you have? Is it Alkaline or acidic? Sandy or clay etc? What grows well in your neighbours gardens & what colours do you like?