[derek murray]

IMHO > Cedar, no stain... let it weather naturally into silver/grey. Cedar posts will last 15 years or more if you keep the weed-eater away from them. If possible, cap the fence panel to prevent water from getting into the end-grain of the fence boards. Use ceramic coated screws if the budget allows. A good rule of thumb for a 6' fence... posts should extend 4' into the ground (2/3 the HT).