In order to explore the soil moisture distribution characteristics and growth conditions of Hippophae rhamnoides under different site conditions, the plot experiment was adopted, and two slope directions (shade slope and sunny slope) and three slope positions (slope top, middle and bottom) were set up. The results showed that:(1) Seasonal variation of soil moisture could be divided into consumption period (May-June), rapid supplement period (June-July) and regression period (July-September). Natural precipitation had great influence on soil moisture content. (2) The vertical distribution of soil moisture in each sample plot was soil moisture significantly changed layer (Cv>0.2), soil moisture sub-change layer (0.2>Cv>0.1) and soil moisture relatively stable layer (Cv<0.1). (3) Different site conditions had significant influence on soil moisture and plant growth. The soil moisture of shady slope was significantly higher than that of sunny slope, and the soil moisture decreased from slope top to the bottom. The growth index and survival rate of H. rhamnoides followed the order of shady slope>sunny slope), bottom>middle>top. The results could provide reference and theoretical basis for the afforestation of H. rhamnoides in the front mountainous zone of Manas County.