This is an arbitrary distinction...
I don't think it is considered beyond a seedling until it has 5-6 nodes, but this label is irrelevant. You simply give it what it demands. If it needs full power light (35-40 dli) and needs proper fertillization, then that is all that matters, regarldess of the exact category it currently fits into. It correlates, but it is not 1:1.
vegetative growth = new leaf growth and stem elongation. Even in "bloom phase" vege growth continues before it tails off. These particular categories are mean to be conceptual only. Simple observe and react to the plant and you'll do fine.
If soilless, definitely starat fertigating with 10% runoff each time... if soil, you wait until you need to supplement what is exhaused from the soil. if familiar, you can have a schedule that pre-empts any deficiencies, if not familiar... i'd take good notes and react to hints of deficiencies your first cycle... once the fertilization ramp-up is mapped out you can avoid them next time. *change soils or fertilizer products and you may need to re-learn that process in future.
Allow new growth node spacing to dictate your light intensity...
Easy-peasy.. take the choices out of the equation. simply observe and react.