Yes. The barbed fork is more stable due to its extra resistants to movement in the ground. To further increase the stability, we have made the fork considerably heavier (from solid iron) to keep the pole properly in place.
Yes. The fork can easily be removed. You can buy a separately sold bracket set and a rubber pole cap for securing the poles to a fence.
Yes. These light poles are sturdy and designed to hold both the heavier traditional string lights as well as modern LED lights.
These light poles are constructed of galvanized, powder-coated steel to resist corrosion. Be careful not to scratch or otherwise damage the protective finish when assembling the poles. In case you develop scratches on the pole, we recommend covering it with rust-preventive spray paint.
Also, if you want to prepare your poles for long-term seasonal storage, lightly coat the threads with oil (WD40 works great). Follow this tip & reassembly will be a snap in the next season!