About Our Company
We are an organic tree nursery trusted for climate-resilient trees.Â
Rooted in Forestry, Committed to Our State
Trees For Alaska is owned and operated by William Ross, a lifelong forester whose career has ultimately returned to its original focus - trees and long-term land stewardship. He earned his degree in Forestry Science from the University of Dublin in 1983, building a strong academic foundation in silviculture, forest ecology, soil science, and sustainable forest management - principles that continue to shape the nursery's practices.
Northern Experience, Grounded in Alaska
After relocating from Ireland to Alaska in 1981, William lived in Juneau before settling in Fairbanks, where he owned and operated a landscaping company for five years. This period provided practical experience with northern soils, extreme winter conditions, and Alaska-native plant systems.
A Broader Path With Forestry Always at the Core
He later pursued chiropractic medicine at Western States University in Portland, Oregon. After completing his education, William and his wife returned to Alaska. He established a chiropractic clinic in Anchorage, which he operated for 25 years. Throughout these years, forestry remained a constant personal and professional interest.
The Beginning of the Nursery
In 2004, William and his wife purchased property along the Kenai River in Soldotna. The land included two mature stands of Siberian Fir that were thriving in conditions closely resembling their native Siberian habitat.
Careful observation over time revealed:
Exceptional winter hardiness
Strong performance during cool, wet summers
No invasive reproduction patterns
No evidence of serious pest or disease issues in Southcentral Alaska
As native white spruce populations declined due to spruce bark beetle infestation, William recognized that Siberian fir could serve as a responsible ecological substitute, maintaining forest structure while supporting wildlife. That realization became the foundation of the nursery.
Sustainable Tree Choices for Alaska
Our nursery operates with a clear ecological mandate. Species such as Siberian fir and Siberian larch are selected because they are:
Non-invasive
Not aggressive self-seeders
Well adapted to Alaska’s climate
Free from known serious local pest pressures
Supportive of wildlife habitat
They provide seed for birds, habitat for squirrels, winter browse for moose, and structural diversity within recovering forested landscapes. For property owners in Anchorage, Soldotna, and surrounding communities, these species represent a practical and environmentally responsible alternative while white spruce populations work toward recovery.
A Thoughtful, Multi-Year Growing Process
Every Siberian fir is grown onsite in Soldotna using organic methods and a deliberate, multi-year cultivation approach. Seed is harvested directly from mature trees on the property.
A Patient, Multi-Year Cultivation Process
After stratification, the seeds are blended with coarse sand and planted in raised beds. Seedlings remain in early growth beds for approximately two years before thinning. In their third year, they are transplanted into larger rows to promote root development. Once they reach target height, they are transferred into tree pots for one to two additional years, and in some cases, replanted again before sale.
These trees are not mass-produced inventory. They are northern-grown specimens cultivated with long-term survival as the primary objective.
This extended process prioritizes:
A One-Person Operation With Deep Experience
Our nursery is a true owner-operated enterprise. William personally grows, transplants, evaluates, and prepares each tree for sale. Every appointment is scheduled directly with him, and every inquiry is answered by someone with formal forestry training and decades of experience working within Alaska’s landscapes. This is not a commercial-scale production facility. It is a stewardship-driven nursery grounded in observation, ecological responsibility, and respect for the land.
Visit by Appointment
We operate by scheduled appointment only. William works directly with homeowners and landowners who prioritize ecological responsibility and long-term forest health. To arrange a visit or ask about current availability, please schedule a visit.