Speeding up time is too computationally expensive, you would need a super computer to run the simulation faster than real time.
A lot of other games like this don't actually model individual behaviours and physics, it's based on statistics and probability. Which is why they can be sped up.
I've tweaked the model so that generations don't last very long to try and speed up the effect of evolution.
The game is meant to be subdued and relaxing, the pacing is part of that design. It's not for everyone for sure.
Make sure your plants are spread out, they compete with each other for resources. I usually spend the first day just letting the plants get established before introducing herbivores. (While I'm building collectors and research stations). As you unlock the plant genes you can try and design more robust ones.