What a wonderful son you must have! You can grow all the plants you mentioned using well drained soil and at most big box stores you can purchase bags of soil that are made specifically for raised beds. I have had great luck using them. The mix is part organic matter and part grit or sand so that the soil drains well but holds moisture. Herbs are especially sensitive to poor drainage and wet soil and must  have good drainage. Basil is very cold sensitive so don't plant until nights are above 50 degrees. You should also add a slow release plant food such as Osmocote at planting time as most edibles and annual flowers are heavy feeders and need more fertilizer than just packaged soil provides especially if they are in raised beds or containers. Enjoy your gift and Keep Growing, Marianne Binetti