The eggs are laid randomly on the soil or within soil cracks. The winter is spent primarily as immatures. As weeds dry in spring or are destroyed, chinch bugs migrate to pistachio trees where they feed. Nymphs predominate during migration but adults may also be present. Important weeds that serve as hosts include wild mustard, wild radish, shepherdspurse, and London rocket.
Movement occurs primarily in early morning or evening.
Their feeding can cause young trees to wilt and die. Feeding on older trees can cause leaves to drop. Treat either in the evening or early morning when chinch bugs are active. Highly toxic to honey bees. Unless otherwise noted, apply with enough water to ensure adequate coverage.