Hi Jason! Living in Florida I really can't offer specifics. But here are my thoughts anyway. Yea to putting your orchids outdoors! Put up the shade cloth you are considering. You will know in short order by leaf color and general response of your orchids as to whether or not they are comfortable. I use shade cloth here which gives me 7000 -8000 ft candles during midday in mid summer. Needless to say I have to watch for burning when I first put the 'chids outdoors for the summer. However, they do seem to adapt and prefer the higher light, and you can always add another layer of cloth. My point is, try it, watch your 'chid's response and move them around accordingly. Well, good luck, and go for it.