Atmospheric particulate matter and dust from agricultural land significantly affect air quality and human health in nearby residential areas. To quantify these air pollutants, it is important to estimate the vertical atmospheric particulate matter PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust flux using observations and validated models. To the authors´ knowledge, this has previously not been performed for semi-humid agricultural areas in China. For this purpose, we used wind tunnel tests together with field observations and the validated WEAM simulation model to assess vertical PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust flux from an experimental agricultural area. Four maize residue management procedures were included in the experiments, namely, conventional tillage (CT), remaining flat residue (FR), remaining standing stubble (MS), and a combination of flat residue and standing stubble (SR). Results showed that: (1) the modified WEAM model adequately simulated the vertical PM₁₀ and dust flux from agricultural land with the four residue managements and the vertical PM_2.5 flux from soils of CT and MS; (2) the vertical PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust flux decrease with increase of density and height of standing maize residue >10 cm, and increase with increase height of standing maize residue <10 cm; (3) the vertical PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust flux decrease with increase of flat residue coverage, and the threshold coverage of flat maize residue varies linearly with the wind speed; and (4) a combination of standing and flat maize residue is needed to prevent vertical PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust flux at wind speed 12−24 ms⁻¹. It can be concluded that flat or standing maize residue may reduce dust emission to the National Environment Air Quality Standard when the wind speed is <16 ms⁻¹. A combination of flat and standing maize residue (>30 cm, denser than 5 cm, and coverage >45 %) is needed for higher wind speed. The study provides an approach to control PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and dust emission from agricultural areas and ways to better manage of crop residue.