06/06/2026
Question of the Week: Watering Smarter During Santa Fe's Drought
Q: How long should my irrigation system run for?
A: Irrigation run times can vary greatly from property to property depending on your soil, plant material, sun exposure, and how the system was designed. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
With Santa Fe experiencing severe drought conditions, it's important to water deeply and efficiently. We typically design our irrigation systems to run 30 to 45 minutes per zone, providing a deep soak that encourages healthy root growth while minimizing runoff and water waste.
Keep in mind that watering frequency is just as important as run time. Plants may need water more often during periods of extreme heat, but longer run times are not always the solution. Regularly check your soil moisture and plant health, and adjust accordingly.
If you're unsure how to program your system, have it evaluated by a professional. A properly adjusted irrigation schedule can save thousands of gallons of water, reduce utility costs, and keep your landscape healthy through drought conditions.