Hi Dave, I am in Sunny California. Here, alone the coast, they like full sun but will tolerate part shade. Plenty of fertilizer. I use Grow More granulated and liquid. I water them twice a week, one if them with liquid fert. I can not answer the question about time of year. We have not had a winter this year in CA so I just keep the same routine. Soil: I use mostly Miracle Gro Moister Control with a good helping of Kellogg Garden Compost.
As for good seller I have a good luck here and on Ebay. Many people here sell there as well. Most sellers are good there although there are a few for which I have been burnt.
Hope that helps and welcome to the group~
Rhapsody
