I have always had problems with plants that were vegged too long, and grown into trees. Almost always there is a little hermie effect. This is reason I prefer clone op, as to grow from seed. Now I do both. As you all know, I love Z, but I don't see the need for the extra bucket. (just my opinion) in fact; there is a lid made, available at hydro stores, with a 6-7 inch pot built in. they are great, and do the same job, and don't reqiure a million holes to be drilled as in Z's DIY. Great job, and as Z said, I am not being rude, just referring folks to an option. I hate drilling holes in plastic. LOL
OK as I see it the extra bucket is for making the job of changing nutes simple and quick. Mix the nutes in the spare bucket, then transfer the lid to the new bucket. Done with time for I have also changed the " inner pot " to a good net pot with a hole saw the size of the pot drilled into a new bucket lid. This has been working very well for me. The reason I drilled the holes is I didnt want to make the trip the the hydro shop or wait till the order came in .
you got me all wrong. I think it is a great set up. I have my pump on top of lid, w/lines thru top. I just pick it up and transfer plant, top, and all to new bucket. Just like you said. With the extra bucket, don't roots hangup a little during transfer? Using hole saw with netpot is how I have always done it, although Z assures me that the method he describes that you are using here grow awesome buddage. Goodluck, and glad you like to experiment. Peace