Question
I use blooming cymbidiums in a restaurant and want to get a maximum bloom time. At times the bloom only lasts for 10 - 14 days. They are needed and moved into an area that is probably too warm, for a period of 6 hours. When they are not needed in that area, should I move them to a modestly warm indoor area or place them outdoors in a protected area? Would it help to cover the plant with a large plastic bag and mist? I am in Oakland (Bay Area), California - mild temp.
Thank you for your advice.

Answer
Larry, You probably should move them in an outdoor protected area. You are in a prime cymbidium growing area where they can be grown outdoors. Be careful of slugs and other pests that can damage both plants and flowers. They like a lot of sunlight, air movement, and humidity and cooler temperatures.  They set their buds in the fall when temperatures are 40-55 degrees F.. Whether they need misting will depend upon humidity levels both indoors and out.  Use of indoor air conditioning will drive down the humidity. Individual flowers may only last 2 weeks depending upon the type. The more substance to the flower, the longer an individual flower will last. Usually the larger cymbidium plants (known as "standard cymbidiums") have larger flowers with heavier substance.  The latter individual flowers may last 3-6 weeks. To strive for cymbidiums that stay in flower longer, you would want a cymbidium that has multiple flower spikes that emerge at different times.  Then, you will not be dependent upon the longevity of individual flowers.