Overwintering larvae may remain dormant until conditions are favourable for development, whether the following spring or several years later. Once temperature and soil conditions end the overwintering period, the larvae become active and move to the soil surface to pupate. Depending on the conditions, the larvae will pupate with or without a cocoon. Adult flies begin to emerge from the pupae in late June or early July. Emergence may continue for about six weeks.
Weather conditions affect the orange wheat blossom midge life cycle significantly.
Moist soil conditions during May and June are required for larval development and pupation. Dry conditions may result in the larva remaining dormant for extended periods of time. Warm calm evenings during July are favourable for egg laying. The midge may exist at low population levels for several years before it becomes a significant problem. But if conditions become favourable, populations can reach epidemic proportions quickly.