The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word ROOTSTOCK
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More clues leading to the result ROOTSTOCK
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Grub supply that extends underground" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case grub supply that extends underground = rootstock.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ROOTSTOCK mean?
ROOTSTOCK noun- A healthy and vigorous-rooted plant that is used in grafting, most commonly as a sound base to support a scion that bears desirable fruit in orchard culture.
- (by extension) The necessary basis for something to develop