Two to three generations of each species occurs each year depending on climate. Eggs are laid singly on the undersides of leaves. Larvae feed for two to three weeks and then pupate. Soybean loopers pupate in silk-like cocoons attached to the underside of leaves of their host plant. Availability of cotton nectar to female soybean looper moths can result in a 60-fold increase in egg production.
Soybean looper is very difficult to control with insecticides.
Resistance to pyrethroid insecticides by soybean looper has been documented in several states. Cabbage looper is much easier to control. Treat based on defoliation thresholds. Coverage is critical to achieve acceptable control. Foliage Feeding Insects.