Application of 2M:4S × MN100%, 2M:4S × MN50% + 3NNPs, and 3M:3S × MN100% recorded the maximum total land equivalent ratio. The interaction of SSC × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs, followed by 2M:4S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs resulted in the highest seed yield components, biological yield, straw yield, and seed yield of soybean. Results Findings revealed that the application of SMC × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs, followed by 4M:2S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs showed the highest growth, biological yield, and grain yield of maize. Under the tested treatments, the agronomic traits, intercropping indices, and economic benefits were estimated. N fertilization treatments included adding 288 kg N ha −1 (MN100%) and two levels of CS-NNPs composite involving 216 kg N ha −1 + 2 foliar sprays of CS-NNPs (MN75% + 2CS-NNPs), and 144 kg N ha −1 + 3 foliar sprays of CS-NNPs composite (MN50% + 3CS-NNPs).

Intercropping involved three intercrop configurations, in addition to planting sole maize crop (SMC) and sole soybean crop (SSC). Methods In a randomized split-plot design in three replicates, three intercropping patterns, in addition to the sole crops, and three N levels were implemented. Therefore, a two-year field trial was conducted to determine the efficacy of nano-chitosan-loaded N (CS-NNPs) for saving mineral N amounts applied in maize-based on maize-soybean intercropping and enhancing land productivity. Additionally, an intercropping legume with cereal as an eco-friendly pattern could improve and rationalize the nitrogenous inputs. Since the release of N nanocomposites coincides with their uptake by crops, N loss reduces while enhancing plant uptake due to nano fertilizers application. Nitrogen (N) is the ruling element in the development of agricultural production, but its use in the mineral form or its excessive use causes several environmental issues. The progressive reduction of synthetic agrochemical fertilizers is one of the key factors in the shift from conventional agriculture to sustainable farming.

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