Seeds Predict Snowy Winter in These Parts

This Howell County persimmon seed is showing the very clear “spoon” shape, linked in Ozark folklore to predictions of a snowy winter. If you find a knife shape, ice is the prediction; A fork means a dry, mild winter. Jefferson County Extension is reporting the results of its 21st Annual Persimmon Seed weather sampling on its website, noting accurate persimmon predictions 15 out of 19 years.

This Douglas County persimmon tree is typical of this year’s crop. Folklore credits the seed in these fruits with the ability to predict the severity of the coming winter.