Broccoli is historically a cool weather crop. Start seeds inside in the early spring for a summer crop and in late summer for a late fall crop. Transplant outdoors when the plants have developed four or five leaves or sow seeds directly in warm, moist soil. Fresh broccoli is full of vitamins and minerals and should be part of everyone's home kitchen garden. Cup for cup it has about the same amount of vitamin C as oranges and as much calcium as milk. It is also gaining a reputation as a cancer fighter. Excellent served raw when young and tender as a garnish in a green salad, steamed, either alone or with your favorite cream or cheese sauce, or roasted.