Unfortunately, dense clustering like this isn't any indication of probable female. The specimen immediately preceding this was similarly impressive but dropped balls and had to be ushered outdoors to hopefully pollinate a selected sacrificial virgin to provide a fresh batch of seeds.the last one looks pretty bushy.
Interesting observation about the downward cupping; I routinely water the 5 gal container with 2 quarts when the entire plant begins to whither. Barely a trickle drains through to the pan that holds it and is takes a day or two before the signs of thirst become apparent again. I may try a more miserly approach and simply fill the catch pan and let it pull from below.You sure are doing a lot of good work friend. Thanks for sharing your grow with us. Your leaves are cupping downwards because the roots are staying wet too long. I had the same thing happen to me when I used large containers. It may be a drainage problem with your bucket or soil but I'm not sure which. Anyway, you are doing a great job and thanks for sharing.