I don't have to worry about electricity costs. (Well, moderate amounts anyway). What is the average grow time for an average 5-foot plant start to finish? Is it really 1/2 the time with hydro? I'm just wondering if growing lots of smaller plants will even out the quality of large plants grown for longer, assuming time means nothing.

Will the buds be more dense and potent with the larger plant, assuming I can light it enough and all conditions being perfect?

I'm not so interested in a commercial crop. If it gets to that point I'll rent a house.