Question
thanks for the help. zip code is 76133.  i was thinking about putting down some winter rye and over seeding it. i know the grass will die after the winter, but i was told it would leave the lawn in a good state for st augustine next spring.  i am guessing that st augustine is the best for my lawn type, shady.
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-----Question-----
the house we just bought was neglectted, especially the lawn.  there is grass and it grows very sparsley when it rains.  if i continue to water the grass will it continue to grow thicker and cover more area or do i have to fertilize and seed the dirt.  i prefer not to go that way just because i don't have the time or money,  what is the best way to make grass grow without fertilizer and seed or sod.  my backyard is very shady and i live in north texas. also, i have picked up most of the leaves, should i leave them on the dirt when i water will that help?
thanks,
josh
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It depends on the grass type have. Some grass types spreads via underground (rhizomes) or above ground (stolon) runners and can fill in a lawn. This is typically the case where you do not have cold winters. In cool season areas, however, most grasses will not spread easily and sowing seeds may be required.

If you can let me know your zipcode, then I can give you a most likely indication of the type of grass you may be growing.

Note: grass generally grow very poorly in shade. It can be difficult to establish a good lawn in a shady area.

Fertilizing is required once the lawn is established. It should be done 3-4 times per year at the right time of the year, which depends on the particular grass type (cool season vs warm season lawn grasses).

I would remove leaves if you are trying to grow grass.

When you do water, water deeply and infrequently such as once per week for 2 hours i/o 15 minutes daily. Consistent moisture is best for the lawn (as opposed to severe wet/dry cycles which as draught followed by flooding) but too much water can lead to shallow rooted lawns.  

Answer
In forth worth you are overseeding with annual rye is a good way to protect the topsoil and retain moisture in the ground. You can then plug St. Augustine in spring and when it is starting to spread, the rye will die back due to hot summer temperatures anyway. Good call.

Regards
Kenneth