Aloe Vera growth

Hi Sprout,
Yes the gel is in the spikes.. Once you cut a spike it doesn't grow again, so resist taking spikes/leaves off until you have an established a clump...

They do not grow back automatically here.. If you are keeping it indoors or the greenhouse all the time here you will be better off for getting new growth... They really need warmth & sunlight to grow.. & will put out new spikes/leaves if nice & warm.... Aloe Vera can live up to seven years without water but can be killed in a much shorter time by over watering or over picking.. But how much watering is too much you say? Well let’s say if you are a consistent organized person who always remembers to water their plants then there is a danger you will over water, however if you are a forgetful student-like who only occasionally remembers to water you will have healthier plants. That said I put my Aloe Vera plants outside for the whole summer and I have seem them swimming in water without seeming to harm them. In winter I only water sparingly may be only 3 times. Or maybe not at all here in the UK..!!!
The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, requires well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It requires dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

You can use the gel straight from the leaves as I do & that is soooo soothing I cannot tell you..!! I just cut what I need, but my friend in CA does this on a regular basis as she has 8 Aloes in her garden..!!!!

Hope that is of some help.. :thumb: