Abstract: 29 summer maize varieties grew in Shandong province were divide into three types through cluster analysis: High-test weight type (H-TW), Middle-test weight type (M-TW) and Low-test weight type (L-TW). Both the variations of variety and that of area were significant. Kernel shape controlled by gene types was important determinant factor for test weight, and the difference of test weight between different kernels was significant. The value was Pop> Flint >Dent. The effect of nitrogen amount on test weight of maize was not significant. Correlation analysis indicated that test weight of different type maize was significantly and positively correlated with kernel weight and yield. There was a negative correlation between test weight and gross fat content. Test weight was correlated positively and significantly with protein content and starch content separately. Pass analysis also indicated that Lysine content was the main limit factor for test weight, because of its least decision coefficient (R(3)2=-0.05%), and the Lysine especially limited the forming of protein. Therefore, increasing starch content is important for test weight.

Key words: Maize (Zea mays L.), Nitrogen fertilizer, yield, quality, nutrition components