What is the primary function of pole pruners?

The primary function of pole pruners is to reach high branches. These tools are specifically designed with long handles that allow the user to cut limbs and branches that are high up in trees without the need for a ladder. This is particularly useful for maintaining tree health, removing dead or damaged branches, or ensuring that trees do not encroach on structures or power lines.

While the other options present various gardening and horticultural tasks, they do not align with the specific design and intended use of pole pruners. For instance, pruning small plants or shaping hedges generally involves tools that are handheld and meant for closer, more precise work. Cutting down trees requires much heavier and more robust equipment, such as chainsaws. Hence, the unique design and functionality of pole pruners position them as the ideal tool for accessing and managing those hard-to-reach branches effectively.