Agnes Stevenson reveals her green-fingered tips and hints. 1. Why can’t I grow Japanese maples? I’ve lost several small trees. – Mrs I. Chalmers, Arbroath. Wind damage is most likely. The leaves are delicate and can easily be burnt by the wind. Squirt bottles, noisemakers, and commercial devices like the Mini scarecrow, a motion sensitive noise and air blaster, can help deter pets from eating