Hello Barbara,

Thank you for your inquiry.  This is a difficult situation to try to grow turf grass.  Grass is a full sun plant for the most part.  There are species, fine fescues, that will tolerate more shade but they are often delicate and don't hold up to foot traffic well.  Grass also doesn't compete well with tree roots.  You will need to ask yourself how will you be using this space and does it need to be lawn?  Could another shade tolerant ground cover work here?  

The space appears to be heavily compacted and acidic so moss and some weeds have taken over.  

Here are some good resources to help you make an informed decision about what to do and what to plant: https://turf.cals.cornell.edu/lawn/lawn-care-the-easiest-steps-to-an-attractive-environmental-asset/

Let me know if you have further questions.

Linda Svoboda

Horticulture Program Educator

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County

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Yes, I would be skeptical of that.  It may grow in shade but may not thrive and fill in the way you want it to.