dividing a Cyperus papyrus

[mzpatti]

I need to cut back my giant Cyperus papyrus. The center is bare because I always cut out the dead stocks. The rhizomes are growing outward from the center. Some are now growing into the patio.

I need to cut these back and would like to replant them. Is all the rhizome above ground? If not how deep do I dig to get enough root to transplant?

When I replant how deep should I plant it since it looks like it's growing on the surface? If I don't plant it deep what's to keep it from falling over? :oops:

[Newt]

Hi Mzpatti,

There are rhizomes under ground as well. I have never dealt with one, but I'm sure you will have quite a large mass to dig out and divide. These sites should be helpful
http://www.floridata.com/ref/C/cypa_pap.cfm
http://www.siu.edu/~ebl/leaflets/papyrus.htm

Plant it at the same depth it was planted before.

Newt