Question
Over a 2yr time period of moving between 3 different places, the growth pattern
of my paphs was affected.  Rather than short compact overlapping leaves, the
growth between each leaf is spaced out; making the orchid look tall and skinny
or leggy.  They haven't bloomed in a long time.  What can I do to get them back
to blooming condition?  Are they salvageable?

Answer
Hello Dana,

Moving the paphiopedilum 3 times in 2 years, it is totally confused.  What also probably contributed to the growth pattern is that the growing conditions might have been quite different at each place, further confusing it.  

Regardless of where you happen to be living, try to give it the same growing conditions.  Paphs. need bright indirect sunlight, temperatures between 55F to 80F, humidity above 40% with some light air movement.  Keep it evenly moist from spring through summer then gradually reduce watering but never let it go completely dry.  Paphs also need good quality water so if your water source is considered hard, you might want to use bottled water.  

Most paphs. bloom in winter so you probably will have to wait another year.  Until then, keep it happy and it will make you happy.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.