Blossoming in the growing season? (9)

I believe the answer is:

sprouting

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

'blossoming in the growing season?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both natural processes as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'blossoming in the growing season?' is the wordplay.
'blossoming' becomes 'out' (I've seen this in other clues).
'in the' indicates putting letters inside.
'growing season?' becomes 'spring' (the best time to grow plants).
'out' inserted into 'spring' is 'SPROUTING'.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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