Hi Avocado, I can't help you on the Riverside/Orange but can help with a couple of questions. Once you get your card you can go to a co-op you'll need your Driver's license to register with the co op also be sure to go to the co op during your doctor's operating hours or they will not be able to register your first visit and without registration no meds. It won't be flagged on your DL they just need to verify you are you.
Clones are basically cuttings from an adult "mother" Many of the co ops sale clones. There is a clone vendor in Temecula that I have heard good things from but again I never have been too far from me.
Vapes are great but big bucks you don't want to go budget if you decide to go with one its sort of you get what you pay for. I have heard that the Volcano vape is the best.
As far as co-ops go in general....check out the lists of co ops here and at weed tracker .com they do post menus and patients do review base on their experiences with individual co ops. The best advice I can give you is to always remember that the co ops are for the most part compassionate but they are a business so treat it as such.
Growing outside in Cali is pretty easy you can find all sorts of growing info here for every kind of grow. Start small and start simple if you can find some cheap bagseed start with that.

Hope this helps
lunarose Reviewed by lunarose on . Couple of noobie questions OK...I finally took the plunge....have an appointment next week for MM certification with a local Doc....pretty sure he will approve based on some serious medical conditions. It is the only thing that really helps me. 1) Once I recieve the Doc's Letter...is that all I need to go to a Co-Op and purchase?? Not interested in any card ...if that will show up on my Drivers License. 2) Can anyone suggest a Co-Op that is fair and honest? I'm in Riverside County, CA.....but not that far from Rating: 5