The lighting will be more than sufficient, but it's not that good to use HPS in veg state.. Get some CFL, then the plants wont stretch that much and will focus on the roots in veg..

I don't know about the soil (very new at growing) you'll just have to wait for Zandor or someone on that one.

225$ isn't that much, mine costerd 150 £... Isn't that more?

But seriously, get some CFL, or a fluor tube.. That will make a hell of alot of difference in the first stage.. If you have the money, get A MH (Metal Halide)..

And a good fertilizer..!

Cheers, And happy growing!!:dance: