Crossword Genius

It can be grown by a veteran for a companion (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

vetch

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'it can be grown' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'a veteran for a companion' is the wordplay.
'a veteran' becomes 'vet' (abbreviation).
'for' says to put letters next to each other.
'a companion' becomes 'ch' (Companion of Honour).
'vet'+'ch'='VETCH'

'by' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for vetch that I've seen before include "Wild climbing plant" , "Purple climbing plant" , "Climbing plant of the pea family, cultivated as fodder" , "Climber" , "Weed" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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