In laboratory experiments, the effect of various temperature regimes on the egg and larval development of Empoasca decipiens Paoli on broad beans were investigated. The shortest egg duration was recorded at 35°C. However, the largest number of larvae emerged at 24°C. Temperature had a significant effect on the larval development time, with a three-fold longer development time at 15°C compared to temperatures ⩾28°C. Shortest larval development time was recorded at 30°C. The host plant species had a significant effect on the larval development time. At 30°C, the shortest development time was recorded on the broad beans (10.2 days) and the longest on aubergines (12.5 days). In a choice experiment, adult E. decipiens significantly preferred older ones compared to younger cucumber plants. In addition, hardly any larvae emerged from younger cucumber plants. These findings are discussed with regard to the increasing pest potential of E. decipiens in European greenhouses.