The recent heat wave has also impacted lots of gardens and trees in the area. Dale Miller and Karen Ackley, with the Marion County Extension Office, recommend watering your plants in the early morning whenever possible. This allows for as little evaporation as possible. Miller says that plants need about 1-1.5 inches of water per week right now, and the key is to water them slowly and deeply. Ackley adds that plants in containers, like your potted patio plants, may need to be watered more frequently.