Don't really know which species of palm you have there but I've never had any problems after covering over exposed roots. There have been times when I've raised the ground level and covered well above any exposed roots and still no problems. So I don't think leaving them exposed or covered will make any significant difference. That said, with the limited soil volume of a pot covered might be better. Mine are in the ground.

Sorry bout that, I ought to've specified that it is an xmas palm aka adonidia merrillii.

I appreciate the feedback -- perhaps I was being unnecessarily cautious in assuming the thicker/woodier roots shouldn't be buried. Looks like your experience(s) are quite telling re placating said assumption/concern. + I figure those surface roots could use the soil.

Thanks for offering some perspective!

This is my largest A. merrillii, still a small tree yet. No sign of exposed roots. My guess what's happened with yours is the organic matter in the potting mix rotted and the soil level dropped. Some of my other species of palm send out roots well above ground level, seem natural for them.

Really appreciate the photo actually, it's quite helpful.

I tend (due -- in my defense -- to relative inexperience) to over-fret re potentially over or under planting... palms or otherwise...

I'm hoping there's some knack I'll encounter (probably like a brick wall or neurosis or peace of mind) eventually.

Keeping the surface roots (or the topmost ones for that matter) properly covered w/o feeling as though I've simultaneously buried the trunk... perhaps I'm making it more arcane than it ought to be. The advice form someone w some experience really comes in handy.

thanks again