Maybe sprinkle some DE on the top of your soil after watering to deter the pests or I’ve read that hydrogen peroxide (dilute) in a spray bottle helps kill the pests as well. How was your experience with egg carton growing?
Yeah my hot peppers are taking a bit to sprout whereas my sweet peppers have already shot out their true leaves. Try nicking your pepper seeds if you want them to germinate faster
Give it another go if you can!