Vitex Tree Leaves Yellowing

Question

We planted a Vitex tree two weeks ago. About 30% of the leaves have turned yellowish with brown spots. Also, the purple flowers on he blooms have gone. It’s June here in Austin and starting to get near 100 some days.

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Answer 1

This will be a bad time to plant. Mainly, because the heat will make you think that you need to water when it is fully saturated. This causes fungal or bacterial infection, which get worse with heat, and the plant or tree dies.

It is best to plant in Spring or Autumn to avoid transplant failure.

For now, care for it as it should be. Make sure to only water when the soil dries completely down to about 2 or 3 inches.

If you must compensate for heat, this should be done with a shade cloth during the hottest time of day.

Treat with a fungicide, and care for the tree as usual for the best chance of survival.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/homemade-fungicide.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/applying-bactericide-to-plants.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/chaste-tree/chaste-tree-cultivation.htm