But, Chickens don't eat Hostas!

[Chickiee]

Good Morning All,
I've had chickens now for 6 years. Not once have they had issues eating the hostas that border my driveway by the house. My approx. 4 month old chicks of various breeds are trotting to the hostas every morning within 10 minutes of my letting them free-range. My poor hostas (both varieties that I have) are apparently making for a hearty breakfast. What in the world?! How do I break them of this habit? Is there something yucky tasting I can put on the hostas? There are at least 25+ hosta plants running along the curve of the driveway so fencing isn't an option. Chickens aren't supposed to eat hostas but I'm guessing I'm not the only one with this question. The adults are still ignoring the hostas.
Thanks for any help you can provide and have a terrific day!

 

[aart]

Fence 'em in or fence 'em out.

 

[Chickiee]

Seriously, there has to be some deterrent I can put on the plants? Something?

 

[aart]

Seriously, there has to be some deterrent I can put on the plants? Something?

Nothing I know of that wouldn't harm the plants or the chickens.

 

[Chickassan]

Everything eats hostas lol! The adults will be eating them too soon now that they've seen the kids eating them it is really just a matter of time. Have to agree the only way to save them is a physical border a fence maybe nettting. Between the chickens and the deer hostas are notsa long lived here either. Good news, they won't hurt the chickens.

 

[FishMtFarm]

Yeah mine started eating away at the hostas too. Naughty girls!

 

[Chickassan]

Last year it went from "awww the hostas are blooming!" Next morning "crap, the hostas are gone!" Eaten clean to the ground just a couple sprigs that the girls made short work of. They did let me enjoy them until they bloomed, such nice deer and chickens.

Yeah mine started eating away at the hostas too. Naughty girls!

 

[Folly's place]

Fencing is the only answer. Tall fencing, or the birds will hop right over it. Or pen the birds; pretty garden, and chicken area, separate.
Mary

 

[Chickiee]

You know, it was my young Roo's fault. He led the girls over to them. Ugh! They may not be free-ranging all that much longer... at least in the front yard.
Thanks much all!