The thirteen-year growth response of pitch x loblolly hybrid pines following a crown touching release conducted at age 7 in the Virginia Piedmont was evaluated. Growth of crop trees was related to the degree of crown release as measured by the free to grow (FTG) rating that ranged from 0 (no release) to 4 (complete release on all sides). The greatest growth response occurred when the free to grow rating was 3 or larger. Diameter growth of the crop trees (FTG > 3) was 77% greater than diameter growth in non-released trees (FTG < 3). At age-20, the average dbh of the crop trees was 11.6 inches while the average dbh of the non-released trees was 7.8 inches. These results indicate that sawlog size pitch x loblolly hybrid pines can be grown in a short rotation if adequate growing space is provided. Financial returns from crop tree management in pitch x loblolly pine are potentially attractive when the increased growth changes the product class of the tree from pulpwood to sawtimber following crown touching release.