start in soil, definitely ... hydro's advantage is speed of growing, and more control over the plant's nutrients ... but, it's time-consuming, and a small miscalculation can do serious damage ... use a decent potting soil, (peatmoss is bad, acidic, but most soils have some in it, anyway), Perlite for drainage and aeration, and go easy on the fertilizer ... the plant will do well, with the soil's ingredients ... no ferts for first two weeks, then use 1/2 strength nutes, once per week ... lay off additives, etc., until you see a 'need' there ... good growing :thumbsup: