Reviving an Indoor Papyrus Plant with Rotting Roots

A papyrus (Cyperus papyrus) thrived in a backyard koi pond but declined after being moved indoors for winter. Roots were rotting; the only change was switching from fine aquatic medium to small pebbles.

Rescue Strategy

1. Let the plant dry out more; keep it cooler (50–60°F / 10–15°C) in a sunny room—mimicking a Florida winter.
2. Take cuttings from healthy stem tips: cut 6‑inch sections, dip in rooting hormone, and root them in the original fine aquatic medium. By spring you’ll have a vigorous new plant.