Chris Allhusen
My name is Chris Allhusen and I am a second generation grower, with my father, Dick, growing blackcurrants since 1952. We farm in Norfolk.
How long have you been growing blackcurrants?
Since 1952
What varieties do you grow and in what region?
Ben Gairn, Ben Alder, Ben Klibrek, Ben Starav & Ben Lawers, all in Norfolk
How much do you harvest annually and where do they go?
Between 450 and 600 tonnes for Ribena.
What else do you grow?
We grow wheat, barley, oil seed, beans and vining peas.
Why do you love growing blackcurrants?
Being part of the “family” of blackcurrant growers and the close involvement with our Customer LRS and the brand Ribena.
Can you give one tip that people could benefit from when growing blackcurrants?
Always think of what the customer wants!
Can you tell us about some of the ways in which you manage the land sustainably?
We have been inCountryside Stewardship Schemes for over 30 years actively managing wildlife. We take great care of the organic matter in the soil and use tracked machines where possible to minimise soil compaction.
What’s your favourite way to enjoy blackcurrants?
Ribena!
If you were a blackcurrant artist what genre of art do you think best represents you in your growing approach and why?
Old Master, Modernist. Both, as although we have been growing blackcurrants for a long time, we use the most modern of methods and continue to innovate as much as we can.