Here is what I am doing with some columbine seeds I got in a trade. I spread half on the surface in the areas I wanted them, the rest I have saved for winter sowing. Last winter I sowed several varieties of columbine and I had very good luck with those.

The rain came!!!!

Pauline

p.s. check out the fall plant exchange.

Here is a link that might be useful: Fall plant exchange

I am for the dual method also. Both of these types of seed can be stubborn when you try to grow them in pots.

I have some aquilegia seedlings just now sprouting from seeds scattered from the dried blossom husks of this springs flowers-
I would think there would still be a little time to direct sow columbines now- what does not sprout this season may just wait till spring-
As for poppies- if they are annuals- I would wait till next spring and just toss on top of the soil- and do not disturb for a week or two.
If you want to be sure to get plants for your efforts- sow some now- and hold some over for winter sowing. That is a fun and addictive past time to get a gardener through the winter months with very good results- take a peek at the winter sowing FAQ for some very good advise on how to get hooked, OH- I mean started.....