Improper fertilization can reduce water and fertilizer efficiency in maize production in semi-arid areas. A study tested different nitrogen fertilizer management methods over 4 years to improve efficiency and yield. Results showed that reducing nitrogen fertilizer by 15% and topdressing during tasseling increased maize yield by 9.8%-17.0% and water use efficiency by 6.3%-21.4%. This method also improved post-flowering biomass, ear characteristics, and fertilizer productivity. Overall, this approach can enhance water and fertilizer use efficiency in maize production, especially in areas with varying rainfall levels.