Here's what I know about soil (not much).
Don't water the base of the stem of the plant, water around the edge of the pot, or from the bottom.
Veg is the growing phase, very important as far as I'm concerned.
I let the main stem get about as fat as my ring finger (big hands) before I switch to 12/12.
Since you're growing outdoors, "when" the plant begins to flower is up to mother nature (when the days get short enough).
Give it all the sunshine you can, don't overwater. When the plant and pot feel light, it's time to water.
Finally...do some reading, RIU is an exellent source of info.
Have fun.