Indoor plants survive without direct sunlight by using artificial grow lights or thriving in low-light conditions due to their natural adaptations to shade, such as efficient photosynthesis in low light and dark foliage to absorb light. They rely on the red and blue wavelengths found in both natural and artificial light sources to make energy. Plants in low-light areas also need careful watering to prevent root rot and regular dusting of their leaves to ensure they can absorb the limited light available.