Update on velvetleaf incursion

FAR is continuing to work closely with MPI, other primary sector industry bodies and regional councils to contain an outbreak of the pest weed velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) in fodder beet crops nationally.

As at 23 March, the pest had been confirmed on 50 properties throughout New Zealand and two varieties of imported fodder beet seed – Kyros and Bangor – have been confirmed to be contaminated with velvetleaf seed. Other varieties are also being investigated. It is possible that velvetleaf could be present in any fodder beet crop, so if you have the time, please check all fodder beet paddocks, for this weed.

If you believe you have found or seen velvetleaf you should:

• Photograph it and phone MPI on 0800 80 99 66.
• Do not pull the plant out, MPI will arrange for that.
• If it is seeding, the seed head with a fertiliser sack of similar, and bend it over so that any seed falls into the bag. The plant should remain in place until field staff visit.

Key points

• MPI is working actively with regional councils and the seed industry to trace where potentially contaminated seed was sold and to inspect those properties for the presence of the weed.
• While the search continues, work is underway developing the best possible options for controlling this pest in the future.
• As well as tracing sold seed, MPI continues to encourage all farmers who have planted any variety of fodder beet to check their crops and report suspected sightings of velvetleaf immediately to MPI on 0800 80 99 66.
• In particular, it is vital farmers who have planted the specific Kyros and Bangor varieties look out for the weed in their crop.
• People finding suspect velvet leaf should photograph any plants, mark the location of plants so they can be found again easily and contact MPI. Do not pull up plants.
• Visiting response staff will be able to advise on farm management including recommendations on grazing stock.
• Velvet leaf is a serious weed pest overseas, damaging crops by competing with them for nutrients and water. It is an Unwanted Organism under the Biosecurity Act, and as such, entry to New Zealand is prohibited.
• MPI is investigating how the weed seeds could have entered New Zealand. The affected consignments met New Zealand's importing requirements and were certified by the exporting country.
• MPI is currently reviewing the import requirements for seed.
• MPI has no plans to walk away from this situation. It is envisaged that managing this pest will require a sustained combined effort over many years.

What does velvetleaf look like?

Velvetleaf is a member of the Mallow family. It is a broad-leafed weed that grows very tall, between 1m and 2.5m. It has buttery-yellow flowers which appear over summer and autumn. Leaves are heart shaped and velvety to touch.

Full information, including a fact sheet and photos can be found at: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/protection-and-response/responding/alerts/velvetleaf/

ENDS

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