I have a similar system. Two 2 gal bucks one inside the other. Filled with expanded clay.Flooded 6 times a day, ph of 5.8 and using lucas method.

When I used molasses and the roots sitting in the 1/2 inch of water at the bottom of the bucket got a goopy, like clear jelly on them. I know it can't be helping only hurting.
How do you all deal with that?