Raised beds without much direct sunlight

Hi all,
Last year I had a go at growing some tomatos, which seemed to be a success, so this year I think I might have a go at more edible gardening. The only space in my garden doesn't get much direct sunlight however, as it's shaded by a fence. As a result, the grass on that side of the lawn doesn't grow well, as it's also quite cly-ey soil. So I thought I might put some small raised beds there (maybe 12 by 3 feet), with some decent soi and compost, rather than they clay.
What do you reckon? Is it worth it if it doesn't get much sun? I have no specific plans for any particular veg, so can adjust what I grow to suit the lower-light conditions.
If it's not a terrible idea, what veg would suit lower-light conditions?

 

Hi hmallet. I too have raised beds,a few of which are fairly shaded. Potatoes, cabbages and onions seemed to do ok there (although the onions DID develop mildew which stunted them a bit). As for the clay, I wouldn't worry about it too much, just try to work in some compost and maybe keep the top few inches clay free to make it easier for seed sowing. Hope this helps. Cheers...freddy.

 

hmallet

My veg beds (only semi-raised at the moment!) don't get as much sun as I would like but last summer they produced some good lettuce, summer cabbage, French beans and leeks.

I'd try some fast cropping veg like salad stuff or summer cabbage, just to see how you get on. You might not get good results from late cropping varieties, though. It's worth a shot.