I am abut to receive some papyrus plants (probably cyperus alternifolius from the bit of research I've done) from a friend. I'd like to know if these plants absolutely need soil, or if they could be kept in a clear glass container with pebbles and water, kind of like a lucky bamboo. The plant really looks like this: http://www.jardins-interieurs.com/v3/images/especes/cyperus.alternifolius.jpg Thanks in advance!
Considering it grows well with the roots submerged in ponds (in summer in temperate climates) and aquariums then I see no reason why not. You would have to add some nutrients to the water every so often, and also change the water regularly, but I am sure you know that already.
Actually I'm glad you would mention it, as I've seen some information somewhere that stated that old, gooey, greenish water was good for promoting rooting when trying to propagate plants like philodendron, etc. So I was kind of hesitant about changing the water often or not with these. What kind of nutrients should I use for this purpose? I'm thinking some sort of liquid fertilizer. What should it be rich in? Usually the doses written on boxes are for plants that are in soil. How much (or how little) should I use for plants growing in water? Thanks again!
Not sure what N-P-K ratio these plants would prefer, but a balanced general purpose liquid or soluble fertilizer should do the trick. Just make sure it also contains trace elements as there will be no soil to supply these. Orchid food might be a good choice as it is designed to be used with soil-less mixes. (hydroponics nutrients would be even better, but not usually a practical option.) One that makes a clear solution would probably look better in a glass container. I would use the food much weaker than recommended on the packet, say quarter to half strength, and not every time you change the water. Iirc these plants drink water quickly when growing well so you will need to top the water up regularly which will be kind of a partial water change, but a full water change occasionally will stop any one element building up in the water, and might be needed regularly if the water begins to smell. Hope that helps.
I would think a slow release formula would be better in avoiding unwanted algae. Being that you have a single plant you'd need to cut these tablets into quarters. http://gardenlink.com/ThrowTabs.htm
