which is better to use for a first time cloner like myself? rockwool vs soil vs compost vs a mix of both?
Rockwool cubes get the job done. They're absorbant, and allow oxygen to the roots. Just be careful handling it dry (the dust is bad for you). Rockwool allows more air to the new roots than most soil mixes. Transplanting is easy with rockwool cubes and more difficult with soil.