Q: How large will vitex trees grow? Our HOA just planted them in the parkways alongside our streets, and they don’t seem like a good choice there. A: Regular vitex grows to 15 or 18 feet tall and wide. There are smaller selections, however, that are becoming more common in the marketplace. I’d suggest asking what variety they have chosen, then follow it through online to see its expected size. You might even be lucky enough to find an old label still attached to one of the plants.
Q: Is it time to treat for chinch bugs? Which product is best? A: I have dealt with chinch bugs in my own St. Augustine for 47 years. They always come back to the same areas — always the sunniest, hottest parts of the yard. Usually, it will be in mid-June in South Texas into early July in North Texas. You will never see chinch bug damage in shady locations. I always watch for spots in sunny areas that look dry but do not respond to watering. That second part is critical.