Leave the form boards in place around the concrete structure to help reduce water loss. Keeping the concrete moist allows the bond between the aggregates and the paste in the concrete to be stronger.
Cure concrete as soon as the surface has been finished and will not be damaged by moderate weight. This is usually when you can press on the surface with your finger and it does not leave an indentation.
Sprinkle the concrete surface gently with the water hose. Don't allow the water to puddle up on the concrete, but don't leave dry areas, either. Strive for an evenly dampened surface.
Cover the concrete surface with plastic sheets to reduce water loss. Overlap the plastic sheets as needed to ensure the entire surface is covered, pulling to the sheets down over the edges of the concrete. Seal the sheets together with wide tape and weigh the edges down with bricks. Keeping the surface covered will ensure that the wind doesn't wick the moisture out of the concrete prematurely.
Check the concrete periodically to see if it is still evenly moist. If it is dry, pull back the plastic sheets and sprinkle the concrete with water. Replace the plastic sheets carefully.
Cure the concrete under the plastic sheets for a minimum of three days. However, allowing the surface to cure for seven days will result in better strength and durability. Remove the plastic sheets and discard them after the curing process is complete.