FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – MushyTech

Find clear, instant answers to the most common questions about MushyTech’s mushroom liquid cultures, shipping policies, research guidelines, and product care.

Do you ship research liquid cultures to all 50 states?

No. MushyTech does not ship research liquid cultures to Florida, Georgia, or Idaho.
These states have strict regulations on research materials, and we comply fully with all federal and state laws. Orders placed with addresses in these states will be automatically canceled and refunded.

All research cultures sold by MushyTech are strictly for microscopy and research use only.
We cannot provide any assistance, guidance, or discussion related to cultivation, growth, germination, or mushroom production. Any attempt to seek cultivation advice—including email, order notes, or messages—results in:

  • Order cancellation

  • Full refund

  • Permanent ban from future purchases

This policy ensures compliance and protects both our customers and our company.

What are your liquid culture syringes made of?

Each syringe contains living mycelium fragments suspended in a sterile nutrient broth.
The particles are small enough to pass easily through the sterile needle and are ideal for microscopy and research observation under controlled conditions.

What ingredients are in your nutrient solution?

MushyTech uses a clean, food-grade nutrient formula made from:

  • Organic cane sugar

  • Light malt extract

  • Non-GMO peptones

  • Distilled water

This balanced broth keeps the mycelium healthy, stable, and active.

How much liquid culture should I use?

For most research applications, 5cc (5 mL) is recommended.
Using too much liquid culture can cause excess moisture, while using too little may limit observable activity.

Can I request a strain that isn’t listed?

Yes!
If there’s a strain you’d like us to consider adding to the MushyTech catalog, email us at support@mushytech.com and we’ll review your request.

What if I need a refund or replacement?

Your satisfaction is important to us.
Refunds are available when necessary, though we typically encourage replacements to ensure you receive viable, active cultures. If you experience an issue, email support@mushytech.com and we’ll be happy to assist.

How will I know when my order ships?

Here’s how the MushyTech order process works:

  1. After placing your order, you’ll receive a secure invoice by email.

  2. Please submit payment within 24 hours.

  3. Once payment is received, your order ships on the next weekday (Monday–Friday).

  4. You will receive a tracking number via email.

Note:
USPS often takes time to scan new packages. If your tracking shows “Awaiting Shipment”, don’t worry—your package is already in their system.

What shipping methods do you use?

MushyTech ships exclusively through:

  • USPS Ground Advantage (standard)

  • USPS Priority Mail (optional upgrade)

Delivery times may vary during holidays, severe weather, or USPS delays, but we work to resolve any issues quickly.

Is the packaging discreet?

Yes.
All orders ship in plain USPS Priority Mail boxes with no mushroom-related wording or branding on the exterior. Your privacy is always protected.

How should liquid cultures be stored?

For best results, keep liquid cultures refrigerated.
Cultures stay most active when fresh, but with proper storage, many remain viable for several months.

Do not freeze liquid cultures—freezing damages the mycelium and reduces viability.

What if I forgot to refrigerate my cultures?

Short periods at room temperature are usually fine.
If left out for several days, growth may slow, but cultures often remain usable as long as they were not exposed to heat or frozen.

I inoculated grain but don’t see growth yet. What should I do?

Growth timing varies by species:

  • Fast growers (e.g., oyster mushrooms) may show activity in 1–2 days.

  • Slower species (e.g., Lion’s Mane, Wine Caps) can take a week or longer.

Factors affecting speed include:

  • Grain moisture level

  • Inoculation amount

  • Culture freshness

  • Temperature and environment

If no growth or contamination appears after two weeks, contact us at support@mushytech.com for a replacement. Patience is often key—clean grains usually colonize with time.