You can actually start them indoors anytime and put them outside after the first frost. Most likely you can start them outside in feb/march. And you can also just put the seeds in the soil and let them sprout. I think it might eliminate the weaker plants, but I also think you might miss the best plant if you do that(so think germ inside). Google freeze dates and pick a site and select FL: they will most likely give the dates for a city near you if not the one you live in. As for the seed starting process you can do either. But I would just start them outside in a little bit of shade. As for the pot question; Are you just growing one? And it would be a waste of tape/time, just get big dark green or black or brown containers. You can dig a hole and drop the containers in the ground to prevent being spotted and it also helps them to not dry out as fast. I had a dilemma with the ground vs containers also. But i think Im going to plant most in the ground. Is your grow a guerilla or back yard? Because last year I had 2 BY grows 4 final plants ea time. Jan-Apr(had to bring inside sometimes at nite during Jan[cuz of cold]) And the another from May-Sept.
The Sheriff copter flew over house quite a few times, not scoping just business. So I wouldnt reccomend any more than 10 if its in BY. As for the tree idea, it will be a pain in the ass, just think abt it. Is the tree really tall? How are you gna water it?