I agree that gooseneck is a thug. I've found that planting it in a most inhospitable place (dry, part shade, under maples), is the only thing that tames it.

That said, I do like it. It thrives, spreads, blooms, anyplace I put it.

Pondy,

I also like the looks of gooseneck, and knowing how aggressive it is, have done the same as Kathy. It's growing near the edge of a wooded area, where there is some shade, competition from Silver Maple roots, and clay soil!
It doesn't spread too fast that way, and I can always pull or dig what I don't want.

Julie

Thanks Kath and Julie.
So, should I kill all the plants that are in my patio garden, and just transplant a few to the wooded area under some tres? Will they even survive in a partly wooded area?

I really like the looks of them. They have an architectural element. Actually, I have a garden area that I wouldnt care if some thug took over.
Have to give this some thought.
Pondy

Pondy,
It sounds like you have a lot of plants (gooseneck), so I would leave a little where you can see them up close, in order to enjoy them, but try planting some in your partly wooded area. Mine, at the edge of a woods where Silver Maples grow, only get to a height of about 18", although this year they are spreading more than I'd like, because of the deluge of rain we got in early June.

I was on a garden walk in Burlington a few years ago, and someone had planted them all around a potting shed, where they were free to spread at will. They were very impressive at a good 3' tall!

Have fun experimenting!

Julie