“The Big Tree” in McBaine gets much-needed care

For the first time in approximately five years, several volunteer groups gave “The Big Tree” in Mid-Missouri some much-needed care.

On Tuesday, workers removed dead limbs on the nearly 400-year-old bur oak, fertilized the tree, aerated the soil nearby and applied special chemical treatments.

“The last few years I have seen the tree in decline and that is why we are stepping up once again to help this treasure,” said William Spradley, owner and president of Trees, Forests and Landscapes.

Spradley said crews applied a chemical called Cambistat, which slows the vegetative growth and helps the tree put more effort into root density and improve resistance to insects and diseases.

Boone and Cuivre River Electric cooperatives also installed lightning protection for the nearly 100-foot tall tree.

Back in 2008, Spradly’s company donated their time to care for the tree and performed similar treatments.