Planning My Spring Planting

I live in the hot and humid south, in Tennessee. I don't think it is dahlia country. I am trying to identify the cultivars that will do well here. Here is one I like.

I have selected these based on the forms that I prefer. This one is open and flat.

The daisy form in this color is irresistable.

When it comes to color, I admire a two-toned flower, but solid white or solid red is nice too. I need you advice on which plants to buy.

Hi Cibarius ^_^ This is a good sight for growing dahlias in a hot climate http://www.dahliasocietyofgeorgia.com/

Also check out the Dahlia Society of Tennesse. Once they get done storing, I bet any one of the officers would be glad to answer your questions on growing there.
http://www.tndahlia.org/

Another option: dahlia grower that moved from WA to TN last year. She will have fewer years of experience in TN, but likely some good input on growing dahlias in that area, or in general.
http://fleurtiques.net/aboutus.aspx

If you like the open, flat form (what looks like a waterlily to me) you can't go wrong with Taratahi Ruby. Small 'checkerboard' version in deep red and white is Rejman's Polish Kid is seen below.

I envy you in TN: I'm still digging and dividing with frozen fingers in our 20-30 degree but DRY weather. Almost done, thankfully.

Hi Cibarius,

I'm over in Knoxville. I think you will be surprised how well your dahlias do in Tennessee. They definitely are heat lovers and do not seem to mind the humidity here. Although they don't start blooming until July, once they start, they continue prolifically until the first heavy frost. I have learned (by accident the first time) that I do not have to lift my tubers if they are planted at least six inches deep, which they are supposed to be anyway, and have good drainage during the winter. Now, I only lift tubers when I want to divide and share or move.I have several dahlias and they all do very well. You do have to make sure that they get water when we have dry spells and I have found that the fertilizer for blooming plants, which I think is high in phosphate, is quite effective so I typically water with it every couple of weeks even if there is plenty of rain.

Good luck with your choices.

Carolynk