Are these trees climate picky? what do they prefer?

Cornus kousa grows in planting zones 5-8 and will do best in full sun to partial shade with uncompacted, moist (not wet), rich soil.

They are not super picky but they are known to not be very drought-tolerant, so make sure to keep the soil moist throughout the summer, especially in the first three years when the tree is establishing itself. They also do best when planted in the spring (after last frost) rather than in the fall.

Hope that helps!