The sunlight is the best light that you can give the plant so if you don't have nosy neighbors, outside would be best. As for the lighting during the vegetative stage, I've always stood by 18 hours of light and 6 of darkness and have been successful. I've done so since I read somewhere that the plants root during the dark hours. Concerning your question about the fluorescent light, I would say that you'll probably want a different light or an additional light during the flowering process. Since I've had to terminate all my babies before they come to harvest, I cannot give you specifics on how much light you'll be needing. Happy highs!