Properly assimilate something that's been potted (6)

I believe the answer is:

digest

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

'properly assimilate' is the definition.
'digest' can be an answer for 'assimilate' (I've seen this in another clue). I'm not sure about the 'properly' bit.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for digest that I've seen before include "Assimilate - summary" , "Gradually come to understand" , "Periodical that summarizes the news" , "Break down (food)" , "publication" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.

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