2

I live in growing region 6a, at very high altitude, in a low-precipitation area, with random snowfall and freezes happening until June 1, but freezes being mild (around 15 degrees F) and short-lasting. Experience gardeners (which I am not) claim it is difficult to grow in this area. Nearly everything I planted failed or wilted. The one plant that has grown successful has been papyrus (Cyperus percamenthus), which have grown to 4 ft tall. They are grown in the shallow region of a pond, fertilized by goldfish. As such, I want to grow more.

It is difficult to purchase these plants in my area, but next spring, I'd expand from growing just 2 of these to 50-100 plants (as many as is possible). That would cost upwards of $1000 if I purchased the plants, not to mention the supply just isn't available, so I want to try to replant from these two that I have.

I read they likely won't regrow after winter. I can't find anything resembling seeds on these plants. Is there some part I can harvest or cut, keep over the winter, and replant in June, so that I can have a multitude of these plants next year?

1 Answer 1

2
+50

In zone 8 Cyprus papyrus, will die back to some degree each winter depending on temperature. But it always comes back vigorously and is invasive here. Acorus is a more cold hardy bog plant . It is very easy ( aka invasive) here; if you want something to try. Acorus is often variegated color and gets about one foot tall.

2
  • Do I understand right, zone 8 has winters that aren't as cold as zone 6? So if it does well in zone 8, it might not do so well in zone 6?
    – Village
    Jul 28, 2021 at 17:11
  • 1
    Yes : References on the net generally list zones where it will never die back ( zone 9). One site did imply that if the underground rhizome does not freeze , it will come back in spring; that is what happens here in zone 8. I think it has a good chance of coming back in zone 6 if the rhizome does not freeze. Alternatively the rhizomes could be dug up and stored in a cool ,damp place during freezing weather. Jul 28, 2021 at 19:34

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.