I am getting ready to quote staining a 260 ft long 6 foot high privacy fence. It was installed in November 2016 so it's right at about 5 months old. The installer told the customer it could be stained in the spring so she is looking to get it stained this month. A website called Texas Wood Products had this to say about staining fairly new pressure treated wood. I wanted to get other opinions. I don't want to advise this customer that it is OK to stain now if it would be better to wait. Here is what Texas Wood Products says,
Pressure Treated New Wood: New pressure treated wood should always be allowed to weather for at least one year after construction. This is very important because the pores of the wood are clogged with chemicals that will not allow the stain to properly penetrate and bond. After one year, clean the wood thoroughly with a sodium hydroxide or percarbonate wood cleaner. Never use pressure higher than 1500 psi when cleaning wood! After cleaning, neutralize and restore pH with an acidic brightener, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before application of Baker's Gray Away.
I noticed these yellowish-green powdery spots that smear when you rub your finger on the fence. I am posting picture here to view. I think it is the chemicals from treating the fence that are moving to the surface.
Best to always follow the directions of the stain brand you decide to use when dealing with new decking. Some can be stained right away while many others want you to wait 3-12 months:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
This wood also looks like rough cut and most stains can be applied right away as long as the wood is dry.
Not sure on the spots. Cleaning and brightening may remove them. They may also not show when stained. Do a test spot with water to see if the wood darkens slightly and the spots disappear/blend.
Thank you.