This insect is often called the corn budworm because of its habit of eating directly into the heart or bud of the plant. The adult is the familiar spotted cucumber beetle. Winter is passed in the adult stage. On warm days between January and April, the eggs are laid in the soil near any growing crop or weeds. The larvae feed for about 2 weeks and then pupate in the soil.
Adults emerge and lay eggs near other crops, weeds, or corn.