Americans are on track to spend more than $40 billion on backyard improvements this year. A smart move, since a study by the University of Michigan found that consumers value a landscaped home 11.3% higher than the same home without good landscaping. But how do you make sure your money is well spent? Here are my best tips:

1. Make a five-year plan

Everything doesn’t have to be done at once. Plantings mature at different rates, and you can add new features each year.

2. Test your soil

Savvy landscapers have a saying, “Plant a $50 plant in a $100 hole.” You can get your soil tested by contacting your county agricultural agency. They’ll send back the results along with instructions on what you’ll need to add to improve it.

3. Don’t forget an irrigation system

If you don’t have the time or interest in watering yourself, consider an irrigation system to keep your plants looking good. It’s expensive, at least $3,000 for your basic midsize yard, but potential buyers will love it.

4. Hire a professional landscape designer

They charge $50-$75 an hour. You can pay them for the design only and do the installation yourself.

5. Check for a name on the pickup truck

If you are using landscapers, be aware that 75% of landscaping trucks have no name on the side — which almost always means they’re not insured.