gardenerwannebe, the folks on this forum are probably charging full tilt into the season, and so have not responded. IMO, do not cut the entire basil plant, you will cut off the unusable short stems that will turn into your next harvest if left alone. As to the zinna colors you can choose from a wonderful palette of colors with the Benary's giant series, just google to find sources, or a mix with State Fair (my fave), or Oklahoma. Lots to choose from and you can use your own eye to choose what color combos you like best. Zinnia Envy, a pale lime green, would also be an interesting combination. Have fun. Kat

gardenerwannabe, I agree with Kat - you don't want to cut the whole basil plant but just harvest stems.

As far as zinnias - wow! You have a huge variety to choose from! Below is a selection from Johnny's Seed. Check out other seed companies too!

Good luck!
:)
Dee

Here is a link that might be useful: zinnias at Johnny's