| This study focused on spring maize varieties in the northern Xinjiang region and conducted variety screening and comprehensive evaluation by systematically measuring the kernel dehydration rate. A total of 34 varieties with different maturities were selected, and the kernel moisture content at physiological maturity and its dynamic changes were measured. The relationship between kernel moisture content and accumulated temperature after pollination was analyzed, and a corresponding nonlinear regression model (y = 90 / (1 + x / 992.201)1.895) was established. The results showed that there were significant differences in the kernel moisture content of different varieties at physiological maturity, with an average value of 27.33% and a range of 24.48 - 30.25%. Among them, the moisture content of the Zhengdan 958 variety was the highest (30.25%), and that of KX2030 was the lowest (24.48%). The constructed regression model revealed a significant downward trend in kernel moisture content with the increase in accumulated temperature after pollination, providing a solid theoretical foundation for in-depth understanding and prediction of the kernel dehydration process. In terms of yield, the average yield of the tested varieties was 12300.59 kg/hm2, ranging from 8655.30 to 16681.77 kg/hm2. Xianyu 1330 was outstanding due to its rapid dehydration characteristics and high yield performance. Based on the kernel moisture content and yield at physiological maturity, the varieties were divided into four categories using the bidirectional averaging method, and excellent varieties with low kernel moisture content and high yield characteristics such as Xianyu 1330, Xiandan 13, and Xiangyu 7381 were screened out. This study also found that the kernel moisture content was closely related to the mechanical grain harvesting quality, and there were significant relationships between it and the broken rate, impurity rate, and yield loss rate. The range of kernel moisture content that meets the national standards was determined, providing key operational guidance for actual production. The research results provide theoretical support and practical guidance for maize breeding and production decisions in the northern Xinjiang region, and are of great significance for optimizing the layout of maize varieties and improving the efficiency of mechanical grain harvesting. |