Abstract Five insecticides were evaluated for control of 2 species of cutworms in a block of mature Bartlett pear trees. Plots (a 600-sq ft area with a tree at each corner of the plot) were replicated twice in a randomized block design. A handgun operated at a pump pressure of 500 psi was used to apply the sprays (volume of 500 gal/acre) in an effort to penetrate the cover crop of mixed broadleaf weeds and grasses. Effectiveness was determined by counting live larvae and cadavers in four 1/4 m2 quadrats chosen at random. Pretreatment counts were made July 28 and Aug 2, 1976; posttreatment counts were made Aug 5 and 6. The spray was applied Aug 2. Control was based on the number of cadavers vs. the number of live larvae recovered.