For you I would make or buy an Aeroponics system. Use foam plugs to hold the plants in the way you have plugs for clones. Or you can use net pots too either way is fine. The idea of Aeroponics is where you can grow with little bottom room. If you work it right the roots don't grow big there is no need so the plant puts it energy into growing plant matter.

There is a thread in here where a member is growing with a sun cell system. Check that out, that is one of your best options to make something like that.