A couple additions to the above thoughts. It may not be over-fertilization leaving salt deposits in the pots' soil, but the use of chemical fertilizers doing it. Try using an organic fertilizer which contains no salts at all.

If chlorination is the problem, here's a simple tip: Fill your watering can and allow the water to sit severl hours - to 24 hours first, to allow the chlorine to evaporate first before using it to water plants.

Thanks for the tips, Speedie. When potting up plants, it's also a good idea to check the contents listed on the bag. Some potting soils contain chemical fertilizers in the mix.

Rain water may be an alternative to tap water for those who are willing to collect it. I count myself as very fortunate to have a cistern system that collects the rain off all the roofs on our property. I even get to use rain water during the winter.