I'm a newbie on the site but not when it comes to growing. If this is your first go at it I would get soil because it's more forgiving with mistakes. Pot size can go from 2 gallon and up depending on the room your working with. As far as the light to veg the plants go to walmart and buy a 20 dollar led shop light, they work great for vegging a plant. When it comes time to flower the plant get a quality light. Mars hydro makes a good one and so do other brands in that price range, you will want a 600w to 1000w light. The more they have the bigger the yeilds. As far as nutrients go general hydroponics or fox farm make good budget friendly nutrients. Hope this helps.