Intercropping wheat and maize in dry regions of China can be efficient but uses a lot of water. Researchers studied how limiting water during different growth stages affects crop yield and water use. They found that when water was limited during certain stages, the wheat/maize intercropping system saved irrigation water while still producing good yields. Intercropping under water limitation saved 60 mm of irrigation water each year and used 18-24% less water compared to growing the crops separately. This shows that by timing water limitations during specific growth stages, farmers can save water while maintaining crop productivity in wheat/maize intercropping systems.