Comparing performance of contrasting distance-independent and distance-dependent competition metrics in predicting individual tree diameter increment and survival within structurally-heterogeneous, mixed-species forests of Northeastern United States

•Data harmonized from several structurally complex, mixed-species experimental forests.•Distance-dependent competition metrics included sophisticated light interception indices.•No general superiority of distance-dependent competition metrics over distance-independent counterparts.•Modest improvements for ΔDBH in shade-tolerant trees of lower crown classes post-harvest.•Model complexity strong factor affecting distance-dependent competition metric performance.