I will definitely look into the Y-Splitters you were talking about, that could really help bush these plants out. A local hardware store is having a 50% off all in-stock lighting, going to go check it out tomorrow.
Water quality is something I can't really improve. I hope leaving the water exposed to air for 20+ hours cleanses it enough to be safe, but on my way to the hardware store I will be visiting home depot for the water testing you were talking about. What do you mean by "i use the 5 gallons for 1.25$"?
I have Vigoro All Purpose Plant Food (24-8-16). After the current batch of molasses enhanced water is done, I will be using a 1/2 tsp per gal to hopefully combat the theorized nut deficiency.
Thanks for your help man, appreciate it