Sorry to read you are in this situation! Being a n00b caretaker is a new position and important!:thumbsup: You have a fortunate wife, that you care enough to do this for her! Either I am loaded and don't quite understand your questions or my brain shut-off!
:jointsmile:
What did you mean outside in soil and inside in Hydro? There are many threads here. The benefit I find with outside is ease and Yield! But, the Hydro guys will say-potentcy and quality (I would add control).

You sure have alot of reading to do!

A few suggestions to get you on the right track! I would try to move caretaker questions to the New Mexcio Thread area if you need help with that? and get the attention of locals for you!

Then read as much as you can on growing in grow logs and Sticky :thumbsup:areas! Growing section!

Then decide what you want to do. Your budget, etc.

Then post what you've decided and ask the growers what they think and if you are on the correct path. Everyone, develops their own style. If your focus on the short term or long term and time! Too many things to consider.

Once, you read enough and get a feel for exactly what you want to do. Then ask away! I am sure the expert growers will help you! I am sure I read the answer to this question a few years ago! It is there, I think.

Once, you are tossed into the arena of caregiving there is a new since of urgency on growing good medical quality bud. If you feel you need some practice, you can grow bag weed seed. But, if you need some good quality stuff, it only costs extra for the seed. Some strains are more testy to grow than others! Good luck and I hope you find the threads that are helpful to you!:rasta: pr