However, rocks shelter delicate plants from too much sun, and keep roots cool. But their bold characteristics of permanence and wilderness, contrasted with colorful flowers, are what makes them so attractive and fitting in the rock garden. Local nurseries may carry a few of the more common ones, but mail-order nurseries dealing with this specialty are dotted all over the country. The American Rock Garden Society operates a seed exchange for its members. Growing from seed is an easy, inexpensive way to get many plants.
Most people get their plants from several sources, including trading with other rock gardeners.
Choose a site that you can easily view and care for, in a place that gets rain and is also within reach of a hose. Rock gardens in full to half sun can grow the widest variety of plants, but there are many unusual rock plants that prefer shade. Ideally, there should be a separation from the regular perennial and annual borders with their large plants. Many of the easier rock plants will thrive in a wide range of soils and you will want to start with them. Sooner or later, however, you will want to make a home for some more unusual plants.