The beet armyworm originated in southern Asia and has since spread throughout most temperate and tropic countries. The beet armyworm has an extremely wide host range including numerous ornamental crops such as roses and geraniums. Chrysanthemums, carnations, and Gypsophila are especially preferred. Beet armyworms web foliage together and feed within this shelter. They also bore into flower buds.
Older larvae feed extensively on flowers, buds, and foliage.
The beet armyworm has several generations per year. Flight activity is greatest in July and August. Eggs are laid in masses of 15 to 150 mostly on the undersides of leaves and mostly within 10 cm of the soil surface. Females may cover the eggs with a mat of scales that protects them from parasites and insecticides. Females prefer younger plants to older plants.