Shoot in season, just not the end of autumn (5)

I believe the answer is:

sprig

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'shoot' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for sprig that I've seen before include "Headless nail; leafy ornament" , "piece of holly" , "Young person" , "Spray - youngster" , "Small nail without a head" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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