I start w/ Miracle Grow seed starting mix. I then add a liberal amount of perlite and worm castings (5:3:1 ratio)
Lighting: Hydrofarm Hood w/ 125-watt CFL 2-3 inches from the plant plus 1 CFL on the side. 1st and 2nd week at 24/7 lighting. 3rd week begin harding off for outside and switch to 18/6. 4th week 12/12 (or match outside lighting) & allow to stay for longer periods outside. End of 4th week I transplant to raised garden bed which has kellogg soil plus fertilizer.
The hardest part of the grow is the insects. And actually, more often its my over reaction to them that does the most damage. I have yet to have a plant die because of bugs. But they have died when I've applied insect killer (even organic stuff). Best stuff for me so far has been ice cold soapy water and daily inspections.