hmmm... i myself have no experience with MH lighting. i clone under 1-2 26W 5500k CFL.

one thing i don't put much stock in: the old leaves. leaves, once starting to turn, rarely recover. i care about the new growth.

i wouldn't say "not prepping the mother correctly." if you're getting roots you're doing a lot correctly, eh? perhaps try a weeks worth of water only (no nutes) with you mother plant before you take cuttings.

your water in the bubbler is pH correct, right?