Because it attacks early in the season, however, plants usually compensate for foliage loss before pods are set. Many entomologists consider the green cloverworm a valuable food source for beneficial insects and diseases. This reservoir of beneficials often controls pests of more economic importance later in the season. In spring, moths become active about the time clover becomes abundant. After mating, the females lay their eggs singly on the underside of the host plant's leaves.
Eggs usually hatch in less than a week.
After feeding for about 4 weeks, larvae drop to the ground, burrow into litter or soil, and pupate. The pupal stage lasts about 10 days. Three to four generations per year occur in North Carolina. Larvae appear on soybeans during early July, peak in mid-August, and decline by late September. For specific control information, consult the current North North Carolina Agricultural Chemical Manual .