Cyperus papyrus

The papyrus plant does well when submerged completely in water, however, it can also tolerate both wet and dry soil conditions. When growing in soil, the plant prefers it to be damp but never soggy. Water the plant when the top couple inches of soil are dry and occasional misting will help minimize the spread of dust and debris. Additionally, adding liquid fertilizer to the water and occasional flooding during the dry season will help boost growth.

The papyrus plant requires intense full sunlight for optimal growth however it can tolerate partial light and is slow to thrive in total shade. Despite its preference for courser light, it is an excellent choice for a balcony garden as long as it is placed close to a window and exposed to plenty of sunlight each day.

Cyperus papyrus can handle temperatures between 50-95°F (10-35°C). The plant is frost tolerant and its optimal growing temperatures are 86-90°F (30-32°C).

The papyrus plant does better in higher humidity (greater than 80%) but can live in environments with lower humidity. If the humidity drops too low, the plant may become weak and susceptible to disease. To combat low humidity, mist the plant or place a humidifier near the plant and ensure adequate air flow.

The papyrus plant prefers soil that that is high in organic material and well-draining. The ideal potting mix should consist of a balanced blend of one part loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite. If planting the papyrus plant in shallow water, it should be secured in a rock or potted in waterbed mixture.

Fertilizing the papyrus plant will help ensure optimal growth. Fertilizing can be done every couple months in the spring and summer months, and less often in the fall and winter. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be added to the water when fertilizing the papyrus plant. Additionally, a slow-release fertilizer can be added to the potting soil used for potted plants to provide long-term nutrients.

The papyrus plant is generally pest free, but it can be vulnerable to spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, snails, and slugs. Spider mites are the most likely to cause damage to the plant as they can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. To combat pests, ensure that any dead or dying leaves are promptly removed and the foliage is periodically sprayed with insecticidal soap. If the infestation is severe, a pyrethrin-based pesticide can be used. Additionally, harboring predatory insects near the papyrus plant will reduce the pest population.

The papyrus plant does not need to be repotted frequently but the plant should be repotted every 3-4 years. When it is time to repot, the roots should be gently loosened and pruned as necessary. Next, the plant should be placed in a medium-sized pot filled with loosened soil and compost, making sure to add drainage holes. The plant can then be lightly watered and placed in an area with plenty of sunlight.

Though not typically required, if the papyrus plant is becoming unruly, it may be necessary to prune the plant occasionally. Pruning should be done by cutting the stems back to about 2-4 inches above the soil line. Before pruning a substantial amount, make sure that the plant is healthy and strong enough to handle the process. Pruning the plant too severely can be detrimental to the plant's overall health.

Mulching the papyrus plant, or adding a layer of organic material around the plant, will help to retain moisture in the soil and prevent the development of weeds. Potential materials that can be used to mulch the papyrus plant include shredded bark, hazelnut shells, or grass clippings. Mulch should be applied in early spring to help protect the plant.

The papyrus plant is quite easy to propagate through division or stem cuttings. If division is desired, the papyrus clump can be divided into equal parts, making sure that each section contains some roots and a stem. If propagating by stem cuttings, a displaced section with multiple stems should be chosen. This piece should then be placed in a shallow container filled with water and allowed to take root. Once the roots emerge, the cutting can be planted in a medium-sized pot filled with loose soil.

The papyrus plant is quite hardy and doesn't require a lot of support. However, if the stems begin to droop, it may be necessary to provide additional support. Staking or using string to tie the tall stems together are solutions that may work well.

The papyrus plant is a hardy species that does not require a true rest period, however, the plant should not be over-watered during the winter months. Providing the plant with an adequate water supply in late fall or early spring will help to maintain the plant's vigor.

No, the papyrus plant is not toxic to pets.