Crossword Genius

A growing need to put Ed in the reserves (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

reeds

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'a growing need to' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'ed in the reserves' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'the reserves' becomes 'res' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'ed' placed within 'res' is 'REEDS'.

'put' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for reeds that I've seen before include "Music-makers" , "pens for sheep" , "Marsh plants with tall straight stems" , "Stems for pens" , "Woodwind instruments" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app