Need shade-loving prolific vines to surround chicken run

[lighthawk]

A Note of caution. Regardless what type of vine you choose be certain to keep it OFF the house. Vines are very intrusive. I have seen them grow under siding (even wood siding) and dislodge it and grow right into window frames and destroy the weather stripping. They can push their way right past a window frame and into the house. Also... The tendrills, as they attach to the siding (especially vinyl) when removed will will leave a woody residue that is almost impossible to clean off. Just a little heads up. Rich

 

[StupidBird]

Double Ditto on what lighthawk says about vines invading the house. Trumpet vine/Campsis radicans was my experience.

Here's a link to one of many state lists of toxic plants. On the other hand, morning glories went crazy all over my run fence, scattering seed like crazy, and none of them seem sick.

http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/plantbiology/ncsc/Poisonplants/resourcesheet.pdf

 

[gardendufus]

Just a question here. I like the thought of vines on my run fence (providing shade, etc), but doesn't that decrease the predator 'proofness' of the fencing?

 

[peteyfoozer]

Just a question here. I like the thought of vines on my run fence (providing shade, etc), but doesn't that decrease the predator 'proofness' of the fencing?

Why? I plant stuff for my chickens to hide in...or do you mean it might draw rats or something?

 

[thistlebloom]

Just a question here. I like the thought of vines on my run fence (providing shade, etc), but doesn't that decrease the predator 'proofness' of the fencing?

Why? I plant stuff for my chickens to hide in...or do you mean it might draw rats or something?

Maybe it makes it easier for some critters to climb. ??

 

[peteyfoozer]

My run has a top on it. Most critters that want in, will be able to dig under or climb without the aid of a vine, I would think. We have a whole roster of predators here, so the only thing that really keeps my chickens safe is my Maremmas!