I'm not a dahlia expert, but I have about 10 that I've had for eight or so years. I have never dug them for winter; I have dug them only to move them from my old home to the new one where I currently reside. I have never lost any of mine
I live in Aiken county, so I expect you would be able to do the same since we're practically neighbors.
That being said, if someone that is an expert suggests digging them for better growth habits or increasing flowers, I would certainly consider it. I just know that it is not a must for the weather we have in our part of the state.
If you check back through some of the posts, you will see some of my pictures from this year's blooms.
Hope this helps,
Regina
