Will We See Snow? 2024 Persimmon Seed Forecast for Arkansas

The Tradition of Predicting Winter Weather with Persimmon Seeds: What 2024–2025 Holds for Arkansas

One of my favorite fall traditions is cracking open a persimmon seed to predict the upcoming winter weather. It’s a bit of folk wisdom that I look forward to each year, especially here in Arkansas, where winter weather can be a bit of a toss-up. Last year, I saw a spoon in the persimmon seed, and sure enough, the winter of 2023–2024 brought more snow to Arkansas compared to the year before. In fact, some pretty impressive snowfall totals were reported across the state:

• Morning Star (Searcy County): 6.3 inches
• Kingston (Madison County, elevation 2,145 feet): 6 inches

This year, when I sliced into a persimmon seed, I saw the same sign—a spoon—which, according to folklore, means we’re in for heavy snowfalls again this winter!

What Does the Persimmon Seed Say?

For those unfamiliar with this tradition, here’s how it works: Inside a persimmon seed, you’ll find one of three shapes:

• Fork: A mild winter, with light snow or cold.
• Knife: Cold, icy conditions.
• Spoon: Heavy snow, as if you’re shoveling with a spoon.

This year, just like last, the spoon-shaped seed suggests a snow-filled winter for 2024–2025. If it turns out like last winter, we might see more beautiful snow-covered landscapes (and probably a bit of extra shoveling, too).

Looking Back at Last Winter

The spoon shape I found last year (2023 Persimmon Seed Forecast For An Arkansas Winter) didn’t let me down. The winter of 2023–2024 delivered more snow than we’d seen in a while.

Seeing that spoon again this year has me excited for what’s to come, and I can’t wait to photograph the snowy scenes that may lie ahead.

Why I Love This Tradition

For me, this tradition isn’t just about whether the seed gets the forecast right—it’s about connecting with nature in a simple, time-honored way. There’s something so satisfying about taking a seed from the land and using it to predict the future, even if it’s just for fun. It reminds me of the cycles of the seasons and the mysteries that nature holds.

What Might Winter 2024–2025 Bring?

If the persimmon seed’s prediction comes true again, we can expect heavier-than-average snowfalls. This could mean colder temperatures, more snow days, and some incredible photo opportunities. I’ll be out there, camera in hand, ready to capture the beauty that winter brings to our natural world.

If you want to try it yourself, it’s easy! Find a ripe persimmon, remove a seed, and carefully slice it open to reveal the symbol inside. Whether it’s a fork, knife, or spoon, it’s a fun way to add a little excitement to the coming season.

Have you tried the persimmon seed tradition or have other ways of predicting the weather? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what you find!