Update Time!
We are around 40 days here. The ladies are really starting to get chunky!
Just to clear up any confusion....no, the root systems (of the Cannabis) are not inhibited or restricted in any way. The health of the Cannabis is obvious. The Basil repels a variety of insects and is said to increase the aroma, as well as the production of essential oils in many (plant) species. Chamomile is said to repel harmful insects as well, but we planted those because they don't use to many resources, are likely to increase the diversity of beneficial organisms in the soil and they make a hell of a Tea.
We will be introducing Earth Worms into the system soon, and they will move about, within the soil itself (rather than remaining in the Tube). Improving the health of the soil, while digesting decaying root matter. (We will be taking a couple towers apart to get a better understanding of the root growth patterns). We plan to empty the Compost Tubes and mix the contents back into the Towers, while harvesting as many Worms as possible, for reintroduction back into the Compost tubes.
We hope to achieve a balance within a few cycles, regulated by the variety of materials introduced into the Tube. We may even try out a crop rotation, planting fast growing N. fixers....
I hope I've answered any questions...I'm pretty stoned right now, so I may have missed something.
Enjoy the Pics!