If you've never grown or are new to hydro. Start with soil. It's much easier and more forgiving. I have been growing in soil for 25 years. This is my first time growing pot. I started 5 seeds in soil and 5 seeds in hydro. The soil plants are a breeze in comparison to hydro. I wanted to make sure I had something to smoke in case I screwed up the hydro grow. If you go soil, let the top dry out before watering and always water with a weak solution of ferts. Good luck.