The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word POLLINATION
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "how can plants be made productive" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case how can plants be made productive = pollination.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 POLLINATION mean?
POLLINATION noun- The transfer of pollen from an anther to a stigma; effected by insects, birds, bats and the wind etc.