Neal: I'm sorry I completely misunderstood your post.
Transplanting poppies isnt hard and as you suspected dormant period is key.
There are varieties that do better than others when moved.
I have a Coral Reef I cant seem to eliminate in one area.I leave behind small root pieces and they are new plants the next year.
Dormant here is when the plant looks dead ( late summer ) but before the new winter crown grows. Use a long spade as the roots are long and hard to get the whole thing. You are younger than I so it shouldnt be a problem.
