it is much easier and simpler to start out with hydroponics, there are a variety of hydroponics growing systems available, cheaper and alot
less messy.
deficiencies and problems show much quicker with hydroponics(plants take in nutients faster) so a problem could be resolved before it even shows up in a soil system.
plus, they grow quicker in a hdro system
if you want to go with a very simple, cheap grow system for your first grow, let me know.
by the way, i have been growing for over 15 years, and i have tried all aspects and procedures to growing this vigorous species of cannabis