new closet grow

Hey guys, my roommates and I grew one lil wimpy plant somewhat au naturale going into winter last year. We just had it growing from natural window light and we didn't really know what we were doing.

But this time, I've done a lot of reading, and I know almost all of what I need to do to get a good, small-to-medium-sized closet grow. I'll give some specs as to size later (sorry, no internet at home), but I've got a few questions I'm hoping you guys can answer.

The space is roughly 2'x2' x 3' or 4' high. I'm planning on putting 2 or 3 plants in there, and I'm planning to use fluorescent light bulbs. I'm considering either some 24" under-cabinet fluorescent bulbs, or 8cfls on a 4-bulb ballast (via 4 y-socket bulb adapters). Any input on which would be smarter for a small area with little ventilation, other than my checking on it every other day or so?
Also, any input regarding a rigging system for raising the lights as the plants grow would be appreciated.

The biggest thing I'm looking on help for is soil/substrate. I'm considering rockwool or something similar (maybe peat cups) to start the seedlings, but I've already begun germination (today) in wet paper towels. What kind of soil/fertilizer/substrate do you guys find works well?

I'm also planning to get a lamp timer for later (veg stage). Any input on this would be also appreciated.

I wanted to edit the previous post, but can't find any edit button.

I meant that I was planning to get a lamp timer for the later (flowering) stage, not veg.

Does anyone know if I would see any difference in a small closet between several CFL bulbs verus fluorescents-strip? Also, as asked above, any recommended soil/substrate for a small closet grow?

Another question I wanted to add was, instead of lining the inside of the closet with foil or another reflective lining, I'm considering flat white matt-board, as I've got some at the house. Any knowledge if this would reflect enough of the cool-spectrum light needed for growth? I'd assume so, but I'm sure someone else has had experience with it.