KOCHI: In an effort that will benefit organic farmers in the city, the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra, functioning under the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, has developed a soil-less medium that can be used as an alternative to soil in grow bags. It will be of great advantage to those facing scarcity of quality soil, particularly in city areas. It is prepared by mixing compost pressmud, a by-product from sugar mills, along with coir pith, powdered cow dung, neem cake and biocontrol agents. As part of introducing the mix to the public, a sales mela will be conducted at the CMFRI on Thursday.