Sporadically injures young crop stands by defoliation. Overwinter as pupae in soil. Egg masses placed on foliage, trees, or buildings. Eggs hatch in about 6 days and feed for 3 weeks. Sixth instar larvae burrow into soil to pupate.
Moths emerge in two weeks.
Entire life cycle takes 4-6 weeks. Three to four generations per year. Seldom require control, but large larvae are difficult to control with pesticides. Early detection is important. Carbamates, organophosphates, pyrethroids, or Bacillus thuringiensis are often recommended for control.