Your succulent may need time to use all of the water it has absorbed in its leaves before it is ready to take on more. The water is not absorbed into the roots. Container Size – A large container will trap water and cause the roots of the succulent to rot. I water lightly once the soil feels dry to ensure that the stems grow roots. The stems and leaves of overwatered succulents can become soft, droopy, and turn dark. The roots spread to the ground from their stems and then send out shoots.