well, im into my first grow(indoor,3.5x6x6, 2 viperspectra 600 led, 4"fan/filter) I used reg big store potting soil and potting mix. Before i found GWE. It has been a struggle, with hot mix at first, and bugs, and poor drainage, etc.. So needless to say, im going to upgrade my mix for next grow. ..(less soil,more organic,more perlite.) i think the growing medium, whichever you choose, is the most important step in growing weed(they need to start out healthy). everything else can be adjusted to how your plant is growing. good luck, homegrown