Oriental poppies definitely need a cold period to germinate well, and typically, in northern zones, you can sow them anytime from fall through winter. I wouldn't wait until spring though. They won't germinate well (if at all) on top of thick mulch, so you'll want to clear away the mulch in areas where you plan to sow them so they can make good soil contact.

Um, I wouldn't. Too many variables, especially sowing anything in wood chip mulch. Although poppies do not enjoy being transplanted, I have done it scores of times...as long as the plants are small. There is, however, a far better compromise which is to station sow a couple of seeds in individual modules or small, 7cm pots. When the seeds germinate and grow on a couple of true leaves, select the best seedling and nip off any others- don't try to pull them out as roots will be damaged, just cut the leaves off at the soil surface.y You can then upend the whole pot/module into your hand and plant in the ground - the roots will experience no disturbance whatsoever. Also, poppy seeds are tiny and fragile - I like to sow seed where I can keep an eye on it, making sure to keep the best seedlings, so I would sow mine in the greenhouse or coldframe to overwinter. Many poppy seeds appreciate a bit of cold weather to break dormancy so no, it is not at all too late to sow yours...in fact, this is an ideal time to start the winter sowing for hardy perennials/shrubs and trees.

Thanks @sah67 (zone 5b - NY)

@rosaprimula

thanks very much for your replies. Exactly the answer I need. I will not try sowing the poppy seeds on the mulch then. Will sow them in individual small pots. I might be able to find those that can be decomposed

I would not bother with peat pots (which is what I think you mean by those that can be decomposed). They do not disintegrate unless kept wet and they tend to wick moisture away from the plant. Just use any small plastic pots you have. If you've ever bought annuals you might have old modules lying around. They can be reused repeatedly.

@floraluk2, thanks much! I almost rushed to the closest store to buy those peat pots. Saved me a trip and a few bucks. Good to know I can use those plastic pots. Thanks!

take a 3 prong hand rake... move aside a 2 foot square of mulch....

fluff the first inch of soil ... distribute seed ... tamp into loosened soil .. gently water is soil if very dry ... walk away

in spring.. when about an inch big.. on a rainy day.. move the babes around a bit.. and pull mulch back over the area when the plants are big enough to handle such...

ken

ken: Thanks! That is a good idea. I should have 50 seeds (still awaiting) and I will try a few sowing in ground directly. I need to label carefully for that.

Um, bit spammish, spamistical, spamtastic...

Um I planted 2 packs in pots and did not get one to germinate

Put the pots in the fridge for 4weeks - they like a bit of a cold spell. Keep them uncovered.