Sure you can grow without spending a lot of money but IMO in order to grow premium pot you need to optimize your plant grow cycle. Bat guano is cheap and gives good results. You can also use cheap lights like cfls but don't expect huge yields. If the soil where you live does not contain to much clay, drains well, and is pest free; then use it. But I stress, in order to get the best out of your plants you need to put the best into it.
I bought some big CFLs, three 19 gallon rubbermaid tubs, potting soil, fish emulsion, molasses, bag of manure. I found some multi-socket bathroom light fixtures at a thrift store, added a bit of scrap plywood and my first harvest netted me a bit under 4 ounces! Granny