You shouldn't plant them at all. They are invasive in Georgia.

Here is a link that might be useful: Invasive info

I hate to say it, Carmie, but Esh is right. They are weedy & trashy trees. They reseed like mad. There aren't any mature trees immediately near me but I still fight the pesky & fast-growing seedlings. They also have weak wood and can fall apart when they get large, which is particularly bad if it's near your house. I'd recommend returning the plants to the place where you bought them if possible. Sorry for the bad news, but welcome to Gardenweb! :)

I don't have problems with mine and this is what I was told by a nursery owner.
'This yearâÂÂs Empress Trees are in short supply. Recent publicity and recommendations from TV shows like Oprah have fueled demand.

Just beware that not all Empress Trees are the same. Some nurseries use wild seed that doesn't grow as quickly and can be invasive. Others use growth inhibitors to keep their trees smaller for shipping. This can stay in the tree for several months, giving you disappointing results.

Fast Growing Trees Nursery uses proven stock that's non-invasive, faster growing, and hardier... your tree arrives ready for explosive growth.'

Here is a link that might be useful: royalempresstree

Yeah, there's no such thing as a non-invasive one. Anyone trying to tell you that is pulling one over on you. Especially a nursery looking to sell you something!

Rosajoe wrote, "Fast Growing Trees Nursery uses proven stock that's non-invasive, faster growing, and hardier... your tree arrives ready for explosive growth."

That is one more load of poop! If you believe that Rosajoe, I have a bridge with your name on it!