Garden cress, a plant with origins in the Near East and Southwest Asia, has widely naturalized across various regions. Its distribution now spans continents from Africa to Asia and includes parts of South America, with a notable presence in Mediterranean climates. Over time, garden cress has been introduced and cultivated in a multitude of areas, thriving in temperate zones and oftentimes becoming part of the local flora.

Garden cress hails from the Middle East but has made itself a global presence due to its weed-like characteristics. Like many weeds, this plant is a tough survivor, adapting to various conditions and soils. It grows rapidly, often crowding out desirable plants, which is harmful to gardens. It's especially prolific in its ability to reproduce, mainly through its release of large quantities of seeds that spread far and wide. Keep an eye out for small, white, four-petaled flowers; if you spot these, you're likely dealing with garden cress. Unfortunately, its proficiency for growth and propagation can cost gardeners dearly in time and effort spent on weed control. Be mindful that this plant's seeds are primarily responsible for its spread. They can travel distances when carried by wind, water, or inadvertently by gardeners, clinging to clothes or tools, making containment a reasonable challenge.

The best season to manage garden cress as a weed is during its early growth stages, preferably late winter to early spring, to keep it from going to seed. To restrict or control garden cress, it needs to be addressed before it flowers and sets seeds.