What is the best way to get my Gardenia plant to bloom and keep away the ants?

Question:I've had my Gardenia in a large pot for about 4 months now and it just now bloomed 1 flower! Also, there is ants making a colony in the soil. Will ant killer harm the plant? Also, any good suggestions for making the plant healthier?
Thanks!

Answers:
It needs more sun if it is not blooming.

Also gardenias usually bloom once a year. All the blooms open at the same time.

Ant killer will not hurt the plant.