When about one-third grown, the larva emerges, moves to the tip of a new leaf, and rolls it up for protection while feeding and growing. When nearly grown, the larva rolls up the margin of a leaf and spins a cocoon inside. The moth emerges from the cocoon, mates, and deposits eggs for another generation. Under greenhouse conditions, the larvae may be found at any time during the year. The insect overwinters outdoors as a larva or pupa.
Adults appear and females begin to lay eggs about the time plants bloom in the spring.
Because the larva protects itself by mining into and rolling the leaf, this insect is not easy to control. Several insecticide-spray mixtures have yielded satisfactory control when applied at the first sign either of the adult moth or of foliar injury by the larva. For specific chemical controls, see the current state extension service recommendations.