Once the roots are in the water you can stop hand watering. Do you have an airstone or two in your bucket? I like to keep the bottom of the net pot or container touching the top of the water, even in a bit. It keeps out an air gap and you won't get corded roots. IMHO I use a drip system with my...
By the looks of things it sure looks like you know what you're doing! Plants look great!. If you are in the US the Home Depot carries HDX totes in 17 ($8), 27 ($9) and even 100 gallon (4 for $109), yes they are really inexpensive for how good they are. They are super sturdy and can hold water...