This coming winter looks to be colder than average with above average snowfall, according to local persimmon seeds.

A native Ozarks fruit tree, folklore has it that the shape of the tiny seedling inside a persimmon seed can predict conditions in the upcoming winter.

Valmeyer resident Dennis Knobloch conducted his annual sampling of 10 persimmon seeds from two trees to determine this year’s winter forecast.

He found a larger percentage of seeds with a knife shape, which means the area will experience an icy winter with cold, cutting temperatures.

“The only thing that concerns me is that there are also a couple of ‘spoons’ thrown into the mix, which would call for lots of shoveling of snow,” Knobloch said.

This winter forecast coincides with the Farmer’s Almanac, which predicts that three-quarters of the United States will experience below-normal temperatures.

The Farmer’s Almanac correctly predicted last winter’s frigid conditions.

“Fall (started) on Monday, so enjoy it while you can!” Knobloch said.