A virulent weed which attacks grain plantations is worrying scientists and growers around the country.

AgResearch has issued an ‘urgent appeal’ to farmers with maize crops to check their plantations and silage stacks for signs of velvetleaf, or Butterprint.

AgResearch scientist Dr Trevor James says the weed has proved devastating in the USA, wiping out up to 35% of crops in some cases.

"This weed was recently found in a maize crop in the Waikato; and the industry in New Zealand is very concerned, as it is difficult to eradicate once it gets established.

"It therefore could impinge quite heavily on the maize industry and also the dairy industry in New Zealand."

Mr James says growers can head to the AgResearch website for more information about the weed, as they’re currently working on eradication methods.

You can find more information here.