I hope I can help a little, I'm really not an expert!
First off, I really like this photo!
To help the flora stand out, you could possibly try printing this with a higher contrast filter, and do some dodging and burning (lighten the plants, darken the ground)
Also maybe using a yellow or green filter while shooting would help make the green of the plants stand out better against the ground.
Otherwise you've done what I would have: use a large aperture to get a shallow depth of field, and shoot in shade with some spots of sunlight.
I also like they way you framed the photo. I think you got as close as you needed to for this particular plant.
That's about all I've got unfortunately. Maybe some other members might have some suggestions too!
Aaron, 'been a way & just now saw your kind help. 'Very much appreciate it. I was w/out tripos, so it was hand-held at 1/15 or 1/30 . 'Particularly appreciate the word about being close enough. 'Never have a good feel for that.
'Hope to have other shots that show improvement. Again, thank You for your kind help.