Growing artichokes

I just got out of the garden to find out why my artichokes are still covered with ants, COVERED, they were doing so well, I sprayed them with Safe-Soap but nothing happened. Also something has eaten every broccoli plant except one that is closest to the peas. I have beer traps for the slugs which are full, I refresh them every day so what else can be eating my basil and sweet potato vines as well?
Please help I usually have a prosperous garden!