Those darn bugs love brassicas and the only way I have found to ward them off is to use insect netting on the raised beds. It really helped to get a nice harvest. Perhaps next season you can try to do that. Here are a couple photos of how I use it. It would be good for broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. I hope this helps you with your future gardening.

Also, do you think using scorpion peppers for a pain salve would be too hot? I use Cayenne but maybe these would be stronger. Just wondering if you have ever tried that.