Growing vines on chicken coop

[Sachipiller]

I am planning on planting a grapevine on my enclosed run to provide my six RIR layers with shade. The run has a hardware cloth floor 3" deep that extends to a 1' predator apron. Is it a problem if I remove a corner of the predator apron to do so?

 

[cavemanrich]

I see no problem at all. Its not like predators run around with metal detectors looking where there is an opening in an underground barrier.
There are alternate options also. You can container grow veggies, like squash, pickles, or beans on that run wall. In autumn, just remove vines, and restart next spring early. The early spring time will allow vines to grow sufficiently so when summer arrives with the more intense sunlight, vines will cover wall.
I like container grow options, because it allows for more precise watering, and feeding of plants. I container grow much of my summer plants and flowers.
WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

 

[3KillerBs]

Be sure to support the grapevine outside the actual run wire on an appropriate trellis designed for grapes.

First, your run wire is unlikely to be strong enough and/or sturdy enough to support a mature grapevine for the next several decades.

Second, your chickens will eat and destroy the young vine if they can possibly reach it.

 

[aart]

I am planning on planting a grapevine on my enclosed run to provide my six RIR layers with shade. The run has a hardware cloth floor 3" deep that extends to a 1' predator apron. Is it a problem if I remove a corner of the predator apron to do so?

Not a good idea, IMO.
Better yet, plant the vine outside the apron, should be easy to train the vine, especially if you take @3KillerBs great advice.

 

[Sachipiller]

Thanks for all the replies. I think we will do some planters with annual plants.

 

[SueT]

I plant pole beans along the outside of my run each year. They provide shade, and the chickens don't really like to eat them or the beans.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Thanks for all the replies. I think we will do some planters with annual plants.

I think planters are the way to go - I did a raised bed behind my chicken run (partially on top of the apron) and I trellis peas on the run fence each spring.