Yep, amp seeds are pretty tricky - based on what I've read and through experience with a few amp seeds. They apparently expire very quickly.
I've also observed that peat tends to host more fungus and microbes than sphagnum. Also, big pots are best, because they hold moisture in the media more evnly than small pots. I know small pots are tempting, though.
Good luck on your next attempts. Growing Neps from seed is a very rewarding experience - the hard part is learning how to do it very well!
