Question
Hi Jim-
Your advice on how to repot my crowded cymbidiums was very clear.. thanks!  I wasn't specific enough in my request for a recommendation for a variety of cymbidium for my friend who is an avid orchid person.  They live in Martinez and do have several green houses.  So, with that additional information, can you please name a specific variety that would make an unusual addition to their collection?  Appreciate any insight you can give me!

Answer
Hi Sharron,

It is difficult to tell you what to get your friend in Martinez without know what kinds of cymbidiums she has and prefers.  Every person has their own likes and dislikes, I would hate to recommend a cymbidium to you only to find out they don't like that type.  

With that said and knowing a little bit about the climate in Martinez, I would recommend the following from Hatfield Orchids:

Lady Sarah 'Strawberry Milk' a pendulous with light pink flowers
Enzan Sarah 'Albion' a pendulous green with yellow lip flowers
Sunshine Falls 'Butterball' a pendulous with yellow flowers

By the way pendulous means that the flower spike grows downward rather than upward from the cymbidium bulbs.  These cyms should be grown hanging to allow the flowers to be more easily seen.  

All of these are below $30.00 but if you would like some in a higher price range, I could do that also.  Let me know.  

By the way, is your Martinez friend named Barbara T.?  I haven't seen her or her husband Dean in many years.  If Barb is your friend, would you tell her I said "Hi".  Thanks.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.