Whether you just don't want to clean the last jar right away or you're culturing multiple batches at one time, an extra jar can come in handy. We have starter jars in 64oz or 1 gallon jars for those home culturers with experience in success. You can purchase our jars blank, or with our waterproof dry-erase labels that are ideal for easy identification and keep track of optimal density dates. These labels stay put through rigirous cleaning regimes and the marker washes away easy under warm water. 

Note: All of our home culture kits include the half gallon (64oz) jar. We've found that starting in a smaller vessel, with a near equal ratio of starter phytoplankton to salt water, significantly increases the chances of culture growth and success. If so desired, the successfull half gallon batch can then be propagated into a larger vessel, from which you can begin your harvest and propagation cycle. We recommend this method for those new to home culturing or those who are having difficulty with culture crashes. 

We aim to provide our customers with a seamless and satisfactory shopping experience, including prompt and reliable shipping services. 

• Processing Time: Orders are typically processed and shipped within 1-2 business days after payment confirmation, excluding weekends and holidays. To ensure product freshness and densities, we may need to delay your order. This will be promptly communicated via email. Orders placed before 10am CST, may ship the same day. 

• Shipping Methods: We offer a variety of options, including standard, expedited, and express shipping. The available methods and associated costs will be displayed at checkout. All products are shipped with thermal protection

• Shipping Rates: Shipping rates are calculated based on the weight of your order, the selected method, and the destination address. You can estimate shipping costs by adding items to your cart and entering your shipping address during checkout. 

• Delivery Time: Delivery times vary depending on the selected shipping method and the destination. Standard shipping typically takes 3-7 business days within the continental United States. Expedited and express shipping options are available for faster delivery. We do not recommend using any shipping method with a delivery window longer than 6 days. We cannot guarantee a product's viability if shipped with delivery windows longer than 6 days.

• International Shipping: We offer international shipping for select items. International shipping rates and delivery times may vary depending on the destination. Customers are responsible for any customs duties, taxes, or import fees imposed by their country's customs regulations. International orders are non-refundable and often take 1+ weeks to process through customs. 

• Order Tracking: Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation email containing tracking information. You can track the status of your shipment using the provided tracking number.

• Shipping Restrictions: Certain items may be subject to shipping restrictions or regulations imposed by local authorities. We reserve the right to refuse orders or adjust shipping methods for restricted items accordingly.

• Shipping Address: Please ensure that your shipping address is accurate and complete to avoid any delays or delivery issues. We are not responsible for orders shipped to incorrect or undeliverable addresses provided by the customer.

• Shipping Damage or Loss: In the rare event that your order arrives damaged or is lost in transit, please contact our customer service team immediately for assistance. We will work with you to resolve any issues and ensure that you receive a satisfactory outcome.

At Mercer of Montana, we strive to provide our customers with high-quality products and exceptional service. Please review our refund and return policy outlined below:

• Refunds and Replacements: One-time Replacements and Refunds will be honored only for damaged items or business errors. To cut down on the carbon-emissions required for return shipping, we do not accept returns and instead ask you to recycle all damaged materials. We encourage customers to visit our FAQs page, contact our customer service team, or conduct forum research before making a purchase to ensure the product meets their needs.

• Damaged or Non-Functioning Products: We will honor refunds or a one-time replacement for unused items that arrive damaged,  phytoplankton that has not survived transit, or any business errors. Please reach out to our customer service team with a photo of the damage, as well as a description of what is wrong with the product. If you believe your live phytoplankton product is no longer viable, please explain your assessment, including any relevant details or evidence. Microscope images are greatly appreciated for accurate assessment.

• Refund Eligibility: Our live phytoplankton products are no longer eligible for replacement or refund should you choose a shipping method with an over 6 day delivery window. Exceptions include any business errors. 

• Missing Packages: All packages are insured with USPS. Customers will need to file a claim with USPS should their package be missing but marked as delivered to the appropriate given address. 

Contacting Us: When contacting us regarding a return or refund, please specify your preferred resolution, whether it be a replacement or a refund.

Do not ingest our products. Our products have not been tested or approved for human consumption.  Buyer assumes all responsibility for the product once shipped. Please follow any disposal of phytoplankton in drains with vinegar or bleach to kill the algae and keep drains clear.

We are working hard to make every piece of your product and packaging eco-friendly. We are continuously updating our list of items that can be recycled or reused. Please review this list on our 'Recycle Me' page.