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.
Suitable soil is nearly the whole secret of good luck with rock garden plants.
A well-drained, but moisture retentive soil will satisfay almost all plants. Native rock harmonizes with gardens better than any exotic rocks you may be tempted to buy or collect. Sink rocks deeply into the soil so they are stable and look natural. Stratified limestone can be used to build ledges and terraces on slopes. Irregular boulders gathered into drifts resemble a dry stream bed.