Where does the cabbage looper overwinter?

The cabbage looper, which is a common pest in agricultural settings and particularly known for feeding on cabbage and related crops, typically overwinters in the soil or in debris at the base of plants. This behavior allows them to find shelter from harsh winter conditions.

By residing in the soil or near organic matter, such as decaying plant material, the cabbage looper larval stage can effectively protect itself from freezing temperatures. During the winter, they enter a state of dormancy until conditions become favorable for emerging in the spring. This strategy enhances their chances of survival through the winter months and allows for the rapid population increase as they re-emerge to feed on crops when temperatures rise.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the cabbage looper's overwintering behavior; the larvae do not survive in plant roots or leaves, nor do they persist in the air, as these would expose them to greater risks from environmental factors.