It most certainly can. If you notice your plants' leaves turning brown on the edges due to leaf scorch, it's an indication that they're getting too much sun. This is something that can happen in the middle of summer. Consider using a garden shade or umbrella during the hottest months to alleviate this problem. Potted and container plants should be moved to a more shady location. A shade cloth, such as this one, is an excellent temporary solution for shielding your plants from the hottest part of the day.