Question
QUESTION: Hey Tom my name is Beau. I have some royal
empress tree seedlings that I planted around
December. They have been growing in a small
greenhouse in peat pellets. They have been
doing very well  my question is when can I
plant these seeds. I'd say that they are almost
1 inch tall and have 4 tiny leaves. I live in the
Southern Kentucky.
Thanks Beau.

ANSWER: Hi Beau,
Thanx for your question.  I would plant the seedlings in separate pots and allow them to get bigger.  Feed them once every 10 days with 12-12-12 balanced fertilizer.  When they are 6-12 inches tall, you can plant them outdoors after you have put them in the shade for 10 days to become accustomed to the outdoors.  Make sure it is after the last frost and at least 30 days before the first frost.  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your insightful information. I have just a few more questions.
What is 12-12-12 fertilizer. Also do youthibk the seedlings will speed up in
growth now and if not when will they?

Answer
Hi Beau,
Thanx for the additional information.  Royal Emperess tree Paulownia tomentosa, is a fast-growing tree that is somewhat invasive in the southeastern United States.  It is native to China and Japan where it is used in reforestation amongst many other uses.  A 12-12-12 fertilizer is just a balanced fertilizer.  Fertilizer are rated according to the percentage of Nitrogen (the first number), which is good for leafy, green growth, phosphorous for strong root, fruit and flower development and the last number is for Potassium for the general strength and disease resistance of the plant.  A 12-12-12 fertilizer balances out all three elements.  This is a general fertilizer that can be found at Walmart and the Big Box DIYs like Home Depot and Lowe's.  P. tomentosa will grow quickly.  Just keep them watered and fed and you will be amazed at how quickly they develop.  I hope this helps.
Tom