CS: In general, it depends on the plant. For epiphytes like orchids and air plants, and semi-epiphytes like monsteras, roots above the soil is normal. Epiphytes have what're called aerial roots, which are the roots above the soil. You can leave these be, but be sure to spritz them if it's an orchid or air plant. For terrestrial plants like pileas, roots coming out of the top or the bottom of the pot means it's time to repot into a larger pot.