Abstract The Chapman-Richards generalization of yon Bertalanffy's growth model is discussed as a basis for the development of practically useful theory of basal area growth and yield of even-aged coniferous monocultures. The origin and generalization of von Bertalanffy's growth model is explored and its applicability to tree and stand growth demonstrated by means of stem-analyzed spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) tree data and experimental plots in slash pine ( Pinus elliottii Engelm.) plantations of different initial stocking densities. Further analyses led to potentially useful generalizations concerning basal area growth and yield of even-aged stands. Hypotheses are developed, in terms of the parameters of the Chapman-Richards growth model, for unthinned even-aged stands. These, in turn, provide a basis for extension to thinned even-aged stands. Briefly, with estimates of the model parameters for a given species and site class, and with the growth-rate parameter related to initial stocking in unthinned stands, the basal area development of stands of different initial stocking and subsequent thinning regimes can be predicted. Forest Sci. 19:2-22.