That's a trick that is used when someone puts together a multi-orchid
display, such as in a big basket, and covers it with Spanish moss or
something, making it hard to get at the individual plants for watering.
Also, some people 'chill' certain genera using that method, in order to
induce spikes. In Delray, there's enough of a diurnal temp range to make
the practice unnecessary. Of course, you said "house plant". If I were
your friends I would simply move the Phals outside for a bit at the proper
time.

Diana