Shallow-buried drip irrigation is being tested as a replacement for drip irrigation under plastic film in growing spring maize in dry areas of northern China. After two years of experiments, it was found that maize yields were higher with drip irrigation under plastic film. This method also improved the uptake of important nutrients by the maize plants. However, the water-use efficiency was slightly better with drip irrigation under plastic film. Overall, drip irrigation under plastic film is more beneficial for production, but shallow-buried drip irrigation could be a good option for farmers until better technology is available and plastic pollution is addressed.