The timer starts while you're still on the intro screen.
The controls were confusing at first. I also think the inventory needs more slots, as I spent a lot of time running back to the shop to sell items. I did like how the farmer moved.
I assume the large amount of starting cash was to let players upgrade early because of the short time limit.
Once I understood the game, I found it easy to cheese by growing everything, collecting it all, leading the monster around for extra time, and selling the excess.
The mouse wheel should scroll through the hotbar. That would make switching tools feel better.
It has its appeal, thank you for the hard work you put in.