Re featheredge fencing: In the garden I've noticed a couple of low down
bits of wood (approx 30cm high x 7cm wide) which have nearly separated from
the main pieces, in the shape of the grain. (Could be that the fence got
kicked - I don't know). 1. What's the neatest method of repair? 2. How
often should the fence be painted and 3.what's the longest-lasting and
nicest coating to use? (I know they come in all shades these days, but I'll
probably keep to real wood colours.)

tia